Caramel Tapioca Dessert

Prep: 720 min

A rich, creamy caramel tapioca dessert with sweet brown sugar, perfect for comforting gatherings or special treats, offering a smooth texture and deep caramel flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup pearl tapioca
  • 3 cups brown sugar
  • 6 cups water

Instructions

  1. Soak pearl tapioca in 6 cups water overnight.
  2. Add brown sugar to the soaked tapioca.
  3. Bake at 350°F until tapioca is clear and liquid thickens.
  4. Remove from oven, cool, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

To ensure your tapioca cooks evenly, soak it overnight as specified; this helps achieve the desired texture. You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a richer taste, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of cinnamon to the mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the caramel tapioca dessert chilled, garnished with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It pairs beautifully with Grandma Tiger's Horseradish Pickles for a contrasting flavor experience. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Sauerbraten and Noodles or Mashed Potatoes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, allow it to come to room temperature or gently reheat it in the oven at a low temperature to maintain its texture without drying it out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Caramel Tapioca Dessert contains roughly 872 calories, with 0g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of iron (18% of the Daily Value).

872 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.4g 1% DV
Total Fat 0g
Carbs 218.5g 79% DV
Fiber 1.6g 6% DV
Sugar 64.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 25.8mg 1% DV
Potassium 99.6mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Calcium 121.8mg 9% DV
Iron 3.3mg 18% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick-cooking tapioca instead of pearl tapioca?

While quick-cooking tapioca can be used, it may not provide the same chewy texture that pearl tapioca offers. If you choose to use it, adjust the soaking time and cooking method as per package instructions to achieve the desired consistency.

What can I do if the tapioca isn't thickening properly?

If the tapioca isn't thickening as expected, ensure that you have baked it long enough. The tapioca should become clear, indicating it is fully cooked. If it still seems too runny, you can return it to the oven for a few more minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

Is this dessert suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this caramel tapioca dessert can easily be made vegan by ensuring that no animal-based ingredients are used, such as dairy in toppings. You can use coconut cream instead of whipped cream for a delicious dairy-free alternative.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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