Slow Cooker Tapioca Pudding Recipe
A creamy and comforting Slow Cooker Tapioca Pudding made with small pearl tapioca, whole milk, and a touch of vanilla. This easy-to-make dessert is simmered low and slow in a crockpot, resulting in perfectly tender tapioca pearls and a rich, custard-like texture.
- Author: Elias
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Rinse Tapioca: Rinse the tapioca pearls thoroughly under cold water, then drain to remove excess starch and prevent clumping during cooking.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed tapioca pearls, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
- Initial Cooking: Cover and cook on low heat for about 4 hours, stirring every hour. This steady slow cooking softens the tapioca pearls and integrates the flavors while preventing sticking.
- Beat Eggs: In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs until smooth.
- Temper Eggs: Gradually add about 1 cup of the hot tapioca mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly to warm the eggs slowly and avoid curdling.
- Incorporate Eggs: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the slow cooker and stir well to evenly incorporate the custard base.
- Final Cooking: Cover and continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pudding thickens and the tapioca pearls become translucent.
- Add Vanilla and Serve: Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. Ladle the pudding into serving bowls and allow to cool slightly before serving warm or refrigerate for a chilled dessert.
Notes
- Stirring every hour during the initial cooking prevents the tapioca from sticking and clumping.
- Tempering the eggs is essential to avoid scrambling and ensures a smooth pudding texture.
- For a dairy-free variation, substitute whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
- Serve warm for a comforting treat or chilled for a refreshing dessert.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: slow cooker tapioca pudding, tapioca pearl pudding, easy slow cooker dessert, creamy tapioca pudding, vanilla tapioca dessert