Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Transport yourself back to grandma’s kitchen with this creamy tapioca pudding recipe, a comforting dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for any occasion, this homemade tapioca pudding is a nostalgic treat that will warm your heart. Follow these simple steps to recreate this classic dessert:
Start by rinsing the tapioca pearls under cold water and draining them. Soak these pearls in a medium saucepan with 1 cup of whole milk for about 30 minutes. This step ensures the tapioca pearls cook evenly and achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Next, introduce the remaining milk, salt, and sugar to the saucepan, mixing well. Gradually heat the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once simmering, reduce the heat and continue stirring for another 10-15 minutes. The mixture will thicken, and the tapioca pearls will become translucent, signaling they’re perfectly cooked.
Temper the beaten eggs by carefully blending a portion of the hot tapioca mix into them. This prevents the eggs from curdling. Reintroduce the tempered egg mix back into the saucepan and stir over medium-low heat for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pudding to thicken further. Finish by blending in the pure vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic flavor.
Distribute the pudding into individual dishes or a large bowl. Let it sit briefly, then seal with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate until the pudding is cool and set, typically about 2-3 hours. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra touch of warmth.
This easy tapioca pudding recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to relive cherished memories. Enjoy this creamy dessert as a sweet ending to any meal!