Tapioca Pudding

Slow Cooker Tapioca Pudding: A Comforting Homemade Delight

The difference between store-bought tapioca pudding and homemade is astonishing. When you opt for the pre-packaged versions, you may find the texture grainy and the flavor artificial or bland. However, this homemade slow cooker tapioca pudding is a creamy, rich, and comforting dessert, infused with hints of vanilla and orange zest. It’s the perfect treat for brightening up a gray day or satisfying a craving for something sweet.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

- 3 cups whole milk

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 ½ cups sugar

- ½ cup pearl tapioca

- Zest of 1 orange

- 2 eggs

- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Coat the inside of your slow cooker pot with cooking spray, brush it with oil, or line it with a slow cooker liner to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, and sugar until fully combined. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and evenly sprinkle the pearl tapioca on top.

3. Cook the Tapioca: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the tapioca pearls become translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the eggs and orange zest. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.

5. Add the Egg Mixture: Stir the egg mixture into the tapioca pudding in the slow cooker. This step adds richness and a touch of zest to the pudding.

6. Finish Cooking: Cover the slow cooker and cook for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the milk is fully absorbed and the pudding thickens.

7. Cool and Serve: Remove the lid and allow the pudding to cool for about 30 minutes. The pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. Serve warm for a cozy treat or chill in the refrigerator for a cool, refreshing dessert.

Serving Suggestions:

- Top with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.

- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

- Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced note.

Final Tips:

- Pearl tapioca is essential for achieving the classic chewy texture; avoid using instant tapioca as it won’t yield the same results.

- Whisking the egg mixture thoroughly helps to prevent curdling when added to the hot pudding.

- Stirring occasionally during cooking ensures even distribution of the tapioca pearls and prevents clumping.

Conclusion

This slow cooker tapioca pudding is a world away from the store-bought varieties. Its rich, creamy texture and the bright hint of orange zest make it a comforting dessert that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether served warm or chilled, this homemade tapioca pudding is bound to become a family favorite.