This classic dessert is making a quiet comeback. Creamy, comforting, and surprisingly underrated.

Some desserts are quiet little gems, and tapioca pudding is one of them. Made with only four basic ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe you can pull together on a weeknight when a sweet craving hits but a full baking project feels like too much. Deeply rooted in classic American home cooking, this pudding is smooth, lightly sweet, and wonderfully nostalgic—without any extra effort.

All you need is a saucepan and a bit of gentle stirring, and you’re rewarded with a dessert that feels far richer than the work it requires. It’s perfect for busy evenings, relaxed weekends, or even prepared ahead for a simple brunch treat. Proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Serve it warm for a cozy, custard-like feel, or chilled for a cool, creamy dessert. Finish it with fresh berries, banana slices, a dollop of jam, or a drizzle of caramel—whatever sounds best in the moment.

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🍮 4-Ingredient Stovetop Tapioca Pudding

Serves 4

🛒 Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Small pearl tapioca (not instant)	⅓ cup	Soaks before cooking
Milk (whole preferred)	2¾ cups	Creates a creamy texture
Granulated sugar	⅓ cup	Adjust to taste
Egg, beaten	1 large	Tempered for smoothness

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Soak the Tapioca
Combine the tapioca pearls and milk in a medium saucepan. Let rest for 20–30 minutes so the pearls soften.

2. Cook the Base
Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the sugar and cook, stirring often, until the mixture begins to steam and the pearls become mostly translucent, about 10–15 minutes. Keep the heat gentle to avoid scorching.

3. Temper the Egg
In a small bowl, beat the egg. Slowly whisk in a few spoonfuls of the hot tapioca mixture to gradually warm the egg.

4. Finish the Pudding
Pour the tempered egg back into the saucepan, stirring constantly. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, until slightly thickened and able to coat the back of a spoon.

5. Rest & Adjust
Remove from heat and let sit for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

6. Serve

• Warm: Serve right away for a soft, custard-like texture.
• Chilled: Spoon into bowls or jars, cover, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours. Stir in a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

✨ Simple, nostalgic, and endlessly comforting—this classic tapioca pudding shows that the best desserts are often the easiest.