This old-school dessert is quietly trending again. Creamy, comforting, and totally forgotten for no reason
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Some desserts feel like little treasures tucked away for just the right moment, and tapioca pudding is one of them. With only four simple ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe you can pull together on a weeknight when you want something sweet but don’t have the energy for a big baking project. Rooted in old-fashioned American home cooking, this pudding is creamy, gently sweet, and nostalgic without being fussy.
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All it takes is a saucepan, a bit of stirring, and suddenly you’ve got a dessert that feels far more indulgent than the effort required. Perfect for busy evenings, lazy weekends, or even a make-ahead treat for brunch, it’s a recipe that proves comfort doesn’t need to be complicated.
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Serve it warm for a custardy, cozy texture, or chill it for a refreshing, creamy treat. Top with fresh berries, sliced bananas, a spoonful of jam, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce—whatever fits the mood.
4-Ingredient Stovetop Tapioca Pudding
Ingredients (Serves 4)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small pearl tapioca (not instant) | ⅓ cup | Hydrates before cooking |
| Milk (whole milk preferred) | 2¾ cups | For best creaminess |
| Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup | Adjust to taste |
| Egg, beaten | 1 large | Tempered for smooth texture |
Directions
- Hydrate the Tapioca
In a medium saucepan, combine tapioca pearls and milk. Let sit for 20–30 minutes to soften. - Cook the Base
Place saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in sugar. Cook, stirring often, until mixture steams and pearls turn translucent (10–15 minutes). Keep heat gentle to avoid scorching. - Temper the Egg
In a small bowl, beat the egg. Slowly whisk in a few spoonfuls of hot tapioca mixture to warm it gradually. - Finish the Pudding
Return tempered egg to saucepan, stirring constantly. Cook another 3–5 minutes until pudding thickens slightly and pearls are mostly translucent. It should coat the back of a spoon. - Rest & Adjust
Remove from heat. Let sit for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. - Serve
- Warm: Enjoy immediately for a custardy texture.
- Cold: Transfer to bowls or jars, cover, and chill for 1–2 hours. Stir in a splash of milk before serving if too thick.
✨ Simple, nostalgic, and endlessly comforting—this tapioca pudding is proof that the best desserts don’t need much fuss.
