Soft, creamy, and rich with chocolate, this Chocolate Tapioca Pudding is comfort food at its most indulgent. It’s the kind of simple, soothing dessert that feels like a warm, familiar hug — perfect for quiet afternoons or cozy nights in.
It’s silky smooth, gently chewy, and just the right balance of sweetness and deep cocoa flavor — perfect for when you want something satisfying but not too heavy. If you love rich but easy desserts, you might also enjoy our Chocolate Panna Cotta, another elegant yet effortless chocolate treat.
Whether you grew up with classic tapioca or you’re discovering it for the first time, this homemade chocolate version feels like a warm, delicious hug in a bowl. And if you’re craving a cozy baked option instead, our Classic Brownies deliver deep chocolate flavor with every tender bite.
Quick Recipe Snapshot
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ cup small pearl tapioca (100g)
- 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
- ½ cup heavy cream (120ml)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (25g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (a pinch)
How to Make Chocolate Tapioca Pudding
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tapioca, milk, and cream. Let soak for 30 minutes.
- After soaking, stir in the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the tapioca pearls become translucent — about 15–20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let cool slightly before spooning into individual serving bowls.
- Chill completely for a firmer pudding, or enjoy warm for a softer, creamier texture.
Handy Tips for Success
- Stir often while cooking to prevent sticking.
- Soaking the tapioca pearls helps them cook faster and more evenly.
- For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder.
Fun Variations to Try
- Add mini chocolate chips just before chilling for an extra chocolate burst.
- Top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate for a beautiful presentation.
- Infuse the milk with cinnamon or espresso powder for a flavor twist.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 24g
The Sweet Story of Tapioca Pudding
Tapioca pudding has humble roots dating back centuries, originally made from the cassava plant’s starch-rich pearls.
While traditional versions highlight vanilla and milk, chocolate tapioca emerged as a modern twist — blending old-fashioned comfort with the irresistible allure of cocoa.
Popular in American kitchens throughout the 20th century, it remains a nostalgic dessert today, loved for its rich texture, gentle chew, and cozy homemade charm.
Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Tapioca Pudding
Serve warm for a soft, melty texture or chilled for a firmer, creamy dessert.
Top with whipped cream, chocolate curls, or a dusting of cocoa powder for a beautiful finishing touch.
FAQs About Chocolate Tapioca Pudding
Can I use instant tapioca?
Small pearl tapioca gives the best texture, but instant can work — just reduce the soaking and cooking time.
How long does tapioca pudding last?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap in almond milk or coconut milk and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
There’s something timeless and comforting about Chocolate Tapioca Pudding — each bite is a perfect balance of rich cocoa, tender pearls, and cozy nostalgia.
Simple, satisfying, and always welcome at the table.
Sandra Bizzolo blends her passion for travel, cooking, and books into every adventure. From global food tours to literary explorations, she brings a warm, personal touch to her recipes, travel stories, and cultural insights.
