Creamy Pumpkin Tapioca

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Creamy Pumpkin Tapioca offers a comforting blend of pumpkin, vanilla, and warm spices, perfect for cozy desserts or autumn gatherings. Its smooth texture and sweet aroma make it a delightful treat.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup skim evaporated milk
  • 1 cup or more pumpkin
  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon quick cooking tapioca
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3 packets Equal or 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Spray a 1-quart baking dish with Pam or non-stick spray.
  2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
  3. Let the mixture set for 10 minutes to allow tapioca to soften.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 25 to 35 minutes until set and slightly golden on top.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using whole evaporated milk instead of skim. If you prefer a lower sugar option, you can substitute the sugar with stevia or another natural sweetener. Stir the mixture well to ensure the tapioca is evenly distributed, as this will help it cook uniformly. Also, let the mixture sit longer if you notice the tapioca hasn’t softened adequately.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy pumpkin tapioca is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon on top. It pairs beautifully with fall-inspired dishes, making it a great dessert after a hearty meal. For an extra touch, serve alongside English Toffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. If the tapioca seems too thick after refrigeration, a splash of milk can help restore its creamy consistency.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creamy Pumpkin Tapioca contains roughly 135 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.

135 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.6g 1% DV
Total Fat 2.8g 4% DV
Carbs 9.3g 3% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 6.4g 13% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 46.4mg 2% DV
Potassium 66.3mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 27.5mg 2% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pumpkin can be used! Just make sure to cook and puree it first until smooth. Fresh pumpkin may have a slightly different texture and flavor, but it will still work well in this recipe. Aim for about 1 cup of pureed fresh pumpkin to match the canned amount.

What if I don't have quick cooking tapioca?

If you don’t have quick cooking tapioca, you can use regular tapioca pearls, but you’ll need to soak them in water for a few hours prior to mixing. This will help them soften and cook properly during baking. Alternatively, cornstarch can be used as a thickener, though the texture will differ slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

To make this recipe vegan, substitute the skim evaporated milk with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk. Ensure the sweetener you choose is also vegan-friendly. Also, check that your tapioca is free from any animal-derived ingredients. These adjustments will make it compatible with vegetarian recipes.

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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