Baked Tapioca Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place. This Baked Tapioca Pudding is not just a treat; it’s a nostalgic gem that many of us cherish from childhood. It features silky custard kissed with vanilla, all studded with those delightful chewy tapioca pearls. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family celebration, this pudding has a special way of making any occasion feel just a bit more special.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Plus, it’s one of those desserts that can be made ahead of time – perfect for those days when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll find this recipe a breeze.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds – it’s that delicious!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it a day in advance, freeing up your time on special occasions.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and creamy custard creates an irresistible harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this lovely Baked Tapioca Pudding, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

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

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.
• Go Tropical: Incorporate coconut milk instead of regular milk for a tropical vibe.
• Fruit Infusion: Add diced fruits like mango or berries into the custard mixture for added sweetness and color.

How to Make Baked Tapioca Pudding

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk powder, salt, and sugar. This mix creates the foundation of your dessert. Next, cut in the softened butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step ensures a flaky crust that will beautifully cradle your custard.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Now add the egg and vanilla extract to your crumb mixture. Mix until smooth; this will give your crust its delightful flavor profile. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the fats solidify, leading to a tender crust.

Step 3: Preheat & Soak

While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Soak those tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes before draining them. Soaking softens them and ensures they cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Tapioca

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soaked tapioca and milk. Cook while stirring frequently until the pearls become translucent and thickened—this should take about 15 minutes. Removing from heat at this stage keeps them from becoming overcooked.

Step 5: Make the Custard Mixture

Whisk together eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth. This mixture will create that luscious custard layer everyone loves! Slowly temper this egg mixture by adding hot tapioca milk while whisking constantly—this prevents your eggs from scrambling.

Step 6: Combine & Thicken

Return that beautiful custard mixture back to the saucepan and cook on low heat while stirring until thickened again. This step is crucial as it ensures your custard sets perfectly when baked.

Step 7: Assemble & Bake

Roll out your chilled dough and press it evenly into a greased baking dish. Pour that irresistible tapioca custard over it; just look at those layers! Brush the edges of the crust with beaten egg for that golden finish we all love. Bake in your preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until set – you’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffed up and lightly browned on top.

And there you have it! A delicious Baked Tapioca Pudding that’s sure to bring joy to anyone who tries it! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Tapioca Pudding

Creating the perfect Baked Tapioca Pudding can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure your dessert turns out beautifully every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your milk and eggs can greatly influence the taste. Fresh ingredients yield a creamier texture and richer flavor in your pudding.

• Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allowing the tapioca pearls to soak for at least 30 minutes ensures they cook evenly and achieve that lovely chewy texture that makes this dish so special.

• Temper Your Eggs Properly: Slowly adding the hot tapioca mixture to the egg mixture prevents curdling. This step is key for achieving a smooth custard that is both rich and silky.

• Monitor Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes. It should be set in the center and golden brown around the edges; a little extra time may be needed depending on your oven’s calibration.

• Let it Cool Before Serving: Allowing your Baked Tapioca Pudding to cool for at least 15-20 minutes after baking will help it set further, making it easier to slice and serve while enhancing the flavors.

How to Serve Baked Tapioca Pudding

Serving Baked Tapioca Pudding is part of the joy of making it! Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, there are plenty of ways to present this delightful dessert.

Garnishes

• Coconut Whipped Cream: A dollop of coconut whipped cream adds a light, airy sweetness that complements the custard beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: Slices of ripe mango or berries provide a fresh contrast, enhancing both taste and presentation with vibrant colors.
• Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkling some toasted coconut on top adds crunch and an extra dimension of flavor that pairs wonderfully with tapioca.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad mixed with citrus adds brightness to your meal. It’s light and balances perfectly with the rich pudding.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm tapioca pudding creates a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
• Shortbread Cookies: Crunchy shortbread cookies offer a delightful textural contrast when served with creamy pudding. Their buttery flavor enhances each bite.
• Mint Tea: A warm cup of mint tea serves as a soothing beverage that complements the dessert without being overpowering.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your guests or treat yourself to an indulgent dessert experience full of nostalgia and comfort! Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Baked Tapioca Pudding!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Tapioca Pudding is a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, ensuring you always have a delicious dessert ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the pudding into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each slice on medium power for about 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delightful dessert, here are some common questions!

What is Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Baked Tapioca Pudding is a creamy custard-like dessert made with tapioca pearls, milk, and eggs. It’s baked until set and features a delightful chewy texture from the tapioca.

Can I use flavored milk for Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Yes, using flavored milk like almond milk or coconut milk can add an extra layer of taste to your Baked Tapioca Pudding. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you’d like to control the sugar levels.

How long does Baked Tapioca Pudding last in the fridge?

Baked Tapioca Pudding will last in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Enjoy it cold or reheated!

Is there a vegan alternative for Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce, and use plant-based milk instead of dairy milk. This way, you can enjoy a vegan version of this delicious pudding!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Tapioca Pudding becomes a beloved recipe in your kitchen! It’s not only comforting but also brings back wonderful memories of family gatherings and sweet indulgence. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself! Enjoy every spoonful of this nostalgic gem, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me.