Slow Cooker Tapioca Pudding 🍮

There’s a certain magic in the way a simple, old-fashioned dessert like tapioca pudding can bring back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings by the fire. This slow cooker version honors the classic Midwestern recipes passed down through generations — comforting, creamy, and effortlessly nostalgic.

Using a slow cooker makes this dessert nearly hands-free while preserving its homemade richness. It’s perfect for busy days when you still crave a little warmth and tradition. Serve it warm with whipped cream, stewed fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon — each spoonful is like a taste of home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🍶 Classic comfort: Creamy, cozy, and reminiscent of old-fashioned homemade pudding.
• 🕰️ Hands-off cooking: The slow cooker does all the work — just stir occasionally!
• 🌾 Timeless flavor: Simple ingredients, pure nostalgia, and plenty of warmth.
• 🥥 Customizable: Easily adapted for dairy-free or flavored variations.

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

Instructions

1. Rinse the tapioca: Rinse tapioca pearls in cold water and drain.
2. Combine ingredients: In a slow cooker, combine tapioca pearls, milk, sugar, and salt. Stir to mix.
3. Slow cook: Cover and cook on LOW for about 4 hours, stirring every hour to prevent clumping.
4. Temper the eggs: In a small bowl, beat eggs lightly. Add about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
5. Incorporate and cook: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the slow cooker, stirring well. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and pearls are translucent.
6. Add vanilla: Stir in vanilla extract just before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and let cool slightly. Serve warm or chilled, topped with whipped cream, cinnamon, or stewed fruit if desired.

Variations & Tips

• 🥥 Dairy-free version: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the whole milk.
• 🌰 Flavor twist: Try almond extract or grated nutmeg for a new depth of flavor.
• 🍇 Texture boost: Stir in shredded coconut or raisins near the end of cooking for a nostalgic touch.
• ❄️ Serving idea: Enjoy warm and cozy, or chill it for a refreshing dessert.

Slow Cooker Tapioca Pudding

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 4 hrs 30 mins | Total Time: 4 hrs 40 mins | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Directions

1. Combine tapioca, milk, sugar, and salt in slow cooker; cook on LOW 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
2. Temper eggs with a cup of hot mixture, return to pot, and cook 30 more minutes until thickened.
3. Stir in vanilla, cool slightly, and serve warm or chilled.

Chef Tip: Serve warm with cinnamon or stewed apples for a cozy, old-fashioned touch. 🍎

💬 Tried this recipe? Share your cozy pudding creations with @SmartCookRecipes and tag #ComfortInABowl! 🍮✨