How to Make Tapioca Pudding from Scratch

How to Make Tapioca Pudding from Scratch

Tapioca Pudding

Homemade Tapioca Pudding – a timeless favorite for dessert lovers.

What is Tapioca?

Tapioca is a starchy substance extracted from the cassava root. Cassava is a root vegetable native to Africa and South America and a staple food in many tropical regions around the world. Tapioca itself has little flavor or odor, but it has a unique chewy texture when cooked.

Tapioca

Uses Of Tapioca - What is Tapioca Pudding Made Of?

  • Starch: Tapioca is almost pure starch, making it a good source of carbohydrates and a thickener in cooking.
  • Form: Tapioca comes in various forms, including pearls (small balls), flakes, and flour. The form determines how long it takes to cook.
  • Applications: Tapioca pudding is a popular dessert made with tapioca pearls, milk, sugar, and flavorings. However, tapioca has many other culinary uses, including thickening soups, stews, and pie fillings. It can also be used to make bubble tea and other beverages.


Ingredients For Tapioca Pudding


 • ½ cup small pearl tapioca

 • 4 cups milk, whole or 2%

 • ¾ cup white sugar

 • 3 eggs

 • ¾ cup white sugar, additional

 • 1 teaspoon vanilla


How To Make Tapioca - 

1. Rinse Tapioca Pearls: Rinse tapioca pearls and then pour into a small bowl and cover with water. Let soak 45-60 minutes.

Soak tapioca

 

2. Cook Tapioca: Add milk and first ¾ cup of sugar to a large saucepan. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once small bubbles form, add the tapioca pearls and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently and cook for 15-20 more minutes or until pearls become translucent.

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3. Prepare Egg Mixture: As pearls cook, beat together the eggs and remaining ¾ cup sugar in a medium size bowl.

 

4. Combine Mixtures: Slowly pour a stream of the hot mixture into the eggs about a ⅓ cup at a time, stirring constantly. Continue until half the hot mixture has been beaten into the eggs.

 

5. Thicken Pudding: Slowly pour the contents of the egg bowl back into the saucepan, continuously stirring. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the pudding starts to thicken (it will continue to thicken as it cools as well).

 

6. Add Vanilla: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Transfer to serving dishes and chill until serving.

Tapioca Pudding Tips


1. How Long Does Homemade Tapioca Pudding Last?

Homemade tapioca pudding is a delicious treat, but it is important to store it properly to ensure freshness and quality. Here is a breakdown on how long tapioca pudding lasts:

  • Refrigerator: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade tapioca pudding will last for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Surprisingly, tapioca pudding freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before serving.

Here are some additional tips to maximize the shelf life of your homemade tapioca pudding:

  • Cooling: Let the pudding cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent bacteria growth.
  • Surface Protection: When storing in the refrigerator, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding. This prevents a "skin" from forming.
  • Reheating: When reheating leftover pudding, do so gently over low heat. You might need to add a splash of milk to thin it out as the tapioca can thicken further during storage.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your delicious homemade tapioca pudding for several days or even months.