Baked Tapioca Pudding

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Baked Tapioca Pudding! This delightful dish combines silky custard with chewy tapioca pearls, all nestled in a buttery crust. It’s not just a treat; it’s a cherished memory from my childhood that I love to share with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this baked delight will surely bring smiles all around.

Baked Tapioca Pudding is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. It’s comforting yet elegant, and once you master the simple steps, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of vanilla and creamy custard creates a nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for novice bakers.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fun texture of the tapioca pearls.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it ahead of time, freeing up your day for more fun activities!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures in your Baked Tapioca Pudding.

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 Filling:

• 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! Feel free to get creative with your Baked Tapioca Pudding by trying out some of these fun variations:

• Add some fruit: Toss in fresh berries or sliced bananas for added flavor and color.
• Change up the milk: Use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option that’s still delicious.
• Infuse with spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring warmth and depth to your pudding.
• Top with nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts add a delightful crunch to each bite.

How to Make Baked Tapioca Pudding

Step 1: Make the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk powder, salt, and sugar. This step is essential because it sets up the foundation for your pie crust. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until you have formed a smooth dough. Wrapping it in plastic wrap helps keep it fresh while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Soak the Tapioca Pearls

Soak the tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes before draining them. This step is crucial as soaking allows those little pearls to absorb water and soften up, ensuring they cook evenly when mixed into your creamy custard.

Step 3: Cook the Custard Base

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the soaked tapioca pearls with milk. Stir frequently until those lovely pearls become translucent and your mixture thickens — about 15 minutes should do it. Removing it from heat at this point helps prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Mix Egg Filling

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will create that rich custard texture we adore in our pudding. Slowly temper this egg mixture by adding hot tapioca milk while whisking constantly—this prevents scrambling the eggs!

Step 5: Combine & Cook Again

Return this combined custard mixture back to your saucepan and cook on low heat while stirring until thickened further. Removing from heat once thickened ensures we maintain that silky texture without overcooking.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake

Roll out your chilled dough and press it evenly into a greased baking dish. Pour that luscious tapioca custard over the crust and brush those edges with beaten egg for that lovely golden finish! Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-55 minutes until set—trust me; it’s worth every minute of anticipation!

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting Baked Tapioca Pudding that’s sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Tapioca Pudding

Creating the perfect baked tapioca pudding is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs and quality dairy make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. They contribute to a richer custard that complements the chewy tapioca pearls beautifully.

• Don’t rush the soaking process: Allowing the tapioca pearls to soak for at least 30 minutes ensures they cook evenly and achieve that delightful chewy texture. Rushing this step can result in pearls that are either too hard or mushy.

• Keep an eye on the custard: Stirring constantly while cooking the custard helps prevent it from sticking to the saucepan and ensures a smooth, lump-free mixture. It also allows you to monitor the thickness as it cooks.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your baked tapioca pudding to cool completely before cutting not only helps it set properly but also enhances its flavor. The waiting game gives all those lovely flavors time to meld together!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to get creative by adding spices like nutmeg or cinnamon, or citrus zest for a refreshing twist. These additions can elevate your baked tapioca pudding from delicious to extraordinary!

How to Serve Baked Tapioca Pudding

Baked tapioca pudding is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic dessert choice for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Here’s how you can present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh fruit: Top each serving with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and freshness that balances the creamy custard.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of non-dairy whipped cream adds a light and fluffy element that contrasts beautifully with the dense custard.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling toasted almonds or pecans on top adds an extra crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Coconut sorbet: This refreshing treat provides a light contrast to the rich pudding while echoing the tropical vibes of tapioca.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and acidity, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the pudding.
• Vanilla ice cream: For those who love decadence, serving baked tapioca pudding with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience.
• Herbal tea: Pairing this dish with a calming cup of herbal tea can enhance your dining experience, providing warmth and comfort after a satisfying meal.

Enjoy making and sharing your baked tapioca pudding—it’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Baked Tapioca Pudding is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Its delicious flavors only get better as it sits, making it an ideal dessert to have on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover pudding in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, check for freshness before serving.

Freezing

• Allow the pudding to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pudding in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the microwave on low power until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this delightful dessert, you’ve come to the right place!

Can I use different types of milk in Baked Tapioca Pudding?

Yes! You can substitute regular milk with almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that flavors may vary slightly.

How do I know when my Baked Tapioca Pudding is done?

Your pudding is ready when the custard is set and the crust has achieved a golden brown color. A toothpick inserted should come out clean from the custard part.

Is Baked Tapioca Pudding suitable for special diets?

Absolutely! This recipe avoids pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

How long does it take to prepare Baked Tapioca Pudding?

The total time from prep to bake is about 1 hour and 20 minutes. With a little planning, you can have this delicious dessert ready without much hassle!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Baked Tapioca Pudding! It’s a comforting recipe that brings back memories while creating new ones with every bite. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, I know you’ll love sharing this delightful treat with family and friends. Happy baking!