Baked Tapioca Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines nostalgia with comfort, then this Baked Tapioca Pudding is just what you need! This recipe brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchen aromas, making it a perfect treat for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its silky custard and chewy tapioca pearls, every bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up that you’ll want to make it again and again!

Whether you’re hosting friends or treating your loved ones to something sweet, this delightful pudding will surely impress. It’s easy to prepare and has that wonderful homemade touch that everyone adores.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the unique texture of the tapioca pearls and creamy custard.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This pudding can be made ahead of time, allowing you to relax and enjoy your event!
• Versatile Flavor: The vanilla flavor shines through, but feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Baked Tapioca Pudding is a breeze! You probably have most of them already in your pantry. These simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

For the Crust:

• 220g all-purpose flour
• 25g milk powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 135g unsalted butter (softened)
• 135g granulated sugar
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Custard:

• 100g uncooked tapioca pearls (sago)
• 350g milk
• 2 eggs
• 100g granulated sugar
• 30g cornstarch
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg (for brushing)

Variations

One of the best things about this Baked Tapioca Pudding is its flexibility! You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Add Some Fruit: Toss in fresh berries or sliced bananas for a fruity twist. They add sweetness and freshness!
• Try Different Milks: Substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option while still keeping it creamy.
• Mix in Chocolate: Stir in some chocolate chips before baking for an indulgent chocolatey version.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor that warms the soul.

How to Make Baked Tapioca Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining the flour, milk powder, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. This blend forms the foundation of your crust, providing both texture and flavor. Cut in the softened butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. It’s important not to overwork this mixture—just enough until everything is combined!

Step 2: Form the Dough

Next, add the egg and vanilla extract into your mixture. Mix gently until it forms a smooth dough. This step is crucial because it helps bind everything together while infusing lovely vanilla notes throughout your crust.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the butter, which makes rolling out easier later on.

Step 4: Soak the Tapioca Pearls

While your dough chills, soak the tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes before draining them. This soaking process is key as it allows them to soften up nicely during cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Tapioca

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soaked tapioca pearls with milk. Stir frequently until they become translucent and thickened—usually around 15 minutes. This step creates that signature chewy texture!

Step 6: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth. Temper this mixture by slowly adding in some of the hot tapioca milk while whisking constantly. This prevents scrambling the eggs by gradually warming them up.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

Return your combined custard mixture back into the saucepan and cook on low heat while stirring until thickened further. It’s essential to keep stirring here to avoid any lumps!

Step 8: Roll Out Your Dough

Take out your chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface. Transfer it carefully into a greased baking dish, pressing it evenly along the bottom and edges.

Step 9: Pour Over Custard

Pour that luscious tapioca custard over your prepared crust. The contrast between creamy filling and buttery crust is divine!

Step 10: Brush for Shine

For that golden finish, brush the edges of your crust with beaten egg before baking. It gives such an appealing color!

Step 11: Bake Away!

Pop your dish into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 45-55 minutes or until set and golden brown on top. Your home will smell incredible during this time!

And there you have it! A beautiful Baked Tapioca Pudding ready to be enjoyed by all!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Tapioca Pudding

Creating the perfect Baked Tapioca Pudding is easier than you might think—just keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and dairy can significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your pudding, making it richer and creamier.
• Soak the tapioca pearls: Soaking them beforehand ensures they cook evenly and achieve that delightful chewy texture we all love.
• Don’t rush the tempering process: Slowly incorporating the hot tapioca mixture into the egg mixture prevents curdling, resulting in a smooth custard.
• Check for doneness: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your pudding while it bakes. It’s ready when the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your pudding to cool for at least 15 minutes helps it firm up, making slicing easier and enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Baked Tapioca Pudding

This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways. Presenting it beautifully will surely impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a pop of color and a refreshing tartness that complements the creamy custard.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this light and fluffy cream enhances the richness without overpowering the dish’s delicate flavors.
• Mint leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves not only provides a lovely contrast but also adds a hint of freshness that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the pudding while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Shortbread cookies: These buttery treats serve as a delightful accompaniment, offering a crisp texture that pairs well with the creamy custard.
• Chia seed pudding: For those who love a textural contrast, serving a small portion on the side provides an interesting twist while keeping things plant-based.
• Coconut sorbet: The coolness and tropical flavor of coconut sorbet create a fantastic juxtaposition to warm Baked Tapioca Pudding, making for an exquisite dessert experience.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to create a comforting dessert that’s sure to bring smiles around your table! Enjoy every spoonful of this nostalgic treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Tapioca Pudding is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its delightful flavors throughout the week. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, cut the pudding into individual portions.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave on low power until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Baked Tapioca Pudding that I hope will help!

Can I make Baked Tapioca Pudding without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as a binding agent. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds combined with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

What is the best way to serve Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Baked Tapioca Pudding is delicious served warm or chilled. You can top it with fresh fruits, whipped cream alternatives, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor!

How long does Baked Tapioca Pudding last in the fridge?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Baked Tapioca Pudding can last for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s covered to keep it fresh!

Can I use different flavors in my Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut, or add zest from citrus fruits for an extra burst of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Baked Tapioca Pudding as much as I do! It’s a comforting dessert that brings back memories and warms the heart with every spoonful. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this recipe is bound to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!