Baked Tapioca Pudding
Baked Tapioca Pudding is a delightful dessert that brings together the creamy richness of custard with the unique texture of chewy tapioca pearls. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings. Its buttery crust and silky vanilla flavor make it a standout treat that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting flavor: The combination of vanilla and creamy custard creates a warm, inviting taste that is sure to please.
- Chewy texture: With its delightful tapioca pearls, this pudding offers a unique chewiness that adds interest to each bite.
- Versatile dessert: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weeknight treat.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe with ease.
- Impressive presentation: The golden crust and creamy filling create an eye-catching dish that will impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Baked Tapioca Pudding, having the right tools on hand will ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients efficiently.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly for the crust, ensuring a perfect fit in your baking dish.
- Baking dish: A good quality baking dish will help distribute heat evenly during baking, promoting a consistent texture in your pudding.

Ingredients
Baked Tapioca Custard Pie – A nostalgic gem! Silky vanilla-kissed custard studded with chewy tapioca pearls, all cradled in a buttery, golden crust. Comfort in every spoonful.
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
How to Make Baked Tapioca Pudding
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, milk powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix to form a smooth dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Soak the Tapioca Pearls
Soak tapioca pearls in water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, drain them well.
Step 4: Cook the Tapioca Mixture
In a saucepan over medium heat:
– Combine soaked tapioca and milk.
– Cook while stirring frequently until the pearls become translucent and the mixture thickens (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 5: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In another mixing bowl:
1. Whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Slowly temper this egg mixture by adding hot tapioca milk mixture while whisking constantly.
Step 6: Combine & Heat Again
Return this combined custard mixture to the saucepan:
– Cook on low heat while stirring until thickened again. Remove from heat once done.
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out chilled dough and press it evenly into a greased baking dish.
- Pour the tapioca custard over the crust.
- Brush edges of crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until the custard is set and the crust is golden brown.
Enjoy this delightful Baked Tapioca Pudding as it cools slightly before serving!
How to Serve Baked Tapioca Pudding
Baked Tapioca Pudding is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it warm or chilled, there are many serving suggestions to enhance its creamy texture and sweet flavors.
Warm with Fresh Fruit
- Serve warm slices topped with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of flavor.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the pudding for extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Lightly dust the top with powdered sugar just before serving for an elegant touch.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added richness and creaminess.
Chilled with Mint Leaves
- Chill the pudding and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing contrast.
Layered in Parfaits
- Create parfaits by layering baked tapioca pudding with yogurt and fruit for a fun presentation.
How to Perfect Baked Tapioca Pudding
To ensure your Baked Tapioca Pudding turns out perfect every time, follow these essential tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring eggs and milk are at room temperature helps create a smoother custard without lumps.
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Soak tapioca pearls adequately: Soaking them long enough ensures they cook evenly and achieve that desirable chewy texture.
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Whisk constantly when tempering: This prevents the eggs from scrambling when you mix them with the hot tapioca milk mixture.
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Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your pudding; it should be set but still slightly jiggle in the center when done baking.
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Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pudding to cool completely helps it set further, making it easier to cut into neat slices.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Tapioca Pudding
Baked Tapioca Pudding pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some delightful options to consider:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the pudding.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: The classic pairing of warm cookies brings nostalgia alongside the creamy dessert.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical twist that works beautifully with the vanilla notes of the pudding.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates an indulgent combination when served alongside warm tapioca pudding.
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Pecan Pie Bars: Their crunchy texture offers a great contrast to the smoothness of the pudding, enhancing your dessert experience.
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Spiced Nuts: A handful of spiced nuts provides crunch and complementary flavors, making each bite more exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Baked Tapioca Pudding, it’s easy to stumble into a few common traps. Here are some mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the soaking step: Neglecting to soak the tapioca pearls can lead to a gritty texture. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Overmixing the crust: Overworking the dough can result in a tough crust. Mix just until combined for a light and flaky texture.
- Not tempering the eggs: Adding hot liquid directly to the eggs can cause them to scramble. Always temper by slowly mixing hot ingredients into the egg mixture while whisking.
- Ignoring baking times: Baking too long or not long enough can affect the custard’s consistency. Keep an eye on your pudding, and check for doneness with a knife.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can disrupt the cooking process. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth custard.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep moisture out.
- Baked Tapioca Pudding lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Tapioca Pudding
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating Baked Tapioca Pudding
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Gently warm on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Tapioca Pudding that might help you:
What is Baked Tapioca Pudding made of?
Baked Tapioca Pudding consists of tapioca pearls, milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, all baked into a creamy custard pie.
Can I make Baked Tapioca Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when my Baked Tapioca Pudding is done?
Your pudding is done when the custard is set and the crust is golden brown. A knife inserted should come out clean.
Can I customize my Baked Tapioca Pudding?
Absolutely! You can add fruits like berries or mangoes for added flavor or sprinkle nuts on top before baking for extra crunch.
Final Thoughts
Baked Tapioca Pudding is a delightful dessert that offers a balance of creamy custard and chewy pearls. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings—your creativity knows no bounds!

Baked Tapioca Pudding
Baked Tapioca Pudding is a delightful dessert that combines the rich creaminess of vanilla custard with the unique chewiness of tapioca pearls. This comforting dish features a buttery, golden crust that cradles the silky filling, making it perfect for family gatherings or a sweet indulgence after dinner. Its impressive presentation and warm, inviting flavors will surely captivate your guests and satisfy any sweet cravings.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 220g all-purpose flour
- 25g milk powder
- 135g unsalted butter, softened
- 135g granulated sugar (for crust)
- 100g uncooked tapioca pearls
- 350g milk
- 2 eggs (plus one for egg wash)
- 30g cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, milk powder, salt, and sugar. Cut in softened butter until crumbly. Add one egg and vanilla; mix into a smooth dough. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Soak tapioca pearls in water for 30 minutes; drain well.
- In a saucepan, combine soaked tapioca and milk over medium heat. Stir frequently until translucent (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add hot tapioca mixture while whisking to temper the eggs.
- Return custard mixture to saucepan; cook on low heat until thickened again.
- Roll out chilled dough and press into a greased baking dish. Pour custard over the crust and brush edges with beaten egg.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg