Coconut Tapioca Pudding Recipe Vegan and Delicious Guide

Updated On: October 8, 2025

If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy dessert that’s both vegan and delightfully tropical, this coconut tapioca pudding recipe is your perfect match. Tapioca pearls bring a unique, chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, luscious coconut milk.

This dessert is not only easy to prepare but also free from dairy and eggs, making it ideal for vegans or anyone with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re serving it as a sweet treat after dinner or a refreshing snack on a warm day, this pudding will satisfy your cravings without any guilt.

With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a bowl of this luscious pudding in under an hour. The natural sweetness of coconut combined with the subtle creaminess of tapioca pearls creates a harmonious blend of flavors.

Plus, it’s gluten-free and refined sugar-free if you opt for natural sweeteners. Dive into this recipe and discover why coconut tapioca pudding is gaining popularity among plant-based dessert lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan coconut tapioca pudding is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, its simple ingredients make it accessible to most home cooks, even beginners.

The pudding is naturally gluten-free and free from common allergens, making it inclusive for many dietary needs.

Second, the texture of the tapioca pearls offers a wonderful contrast to the silky coconut milk, giving each spoonful a delightful chewiness that’s both fun and satisfying. Third, it’s versatile — you can enjoy it warm or chilled, and customize it with various toppings or flavor infusions.

Finally, this pudding stores well, so you can make it ahead for special occasions or enjoy leftovers as a quick snack. If you love tropical flavors and crave a nutritious dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your vegan dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup small tapioca pearls (make sure they are pearl tapioca, not instant)
  • 2 cups canned coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar for sweetening)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional toppings: toasted shredded coconut, fresh mango chunks, or chopped nuts

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with a lid
  • Whisk or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Bowl or container for soaking tapioca (optional)
  • Serving bowls or ramekins

Instructions

  1. Soak the tapioca pearls: Place the tapioca pearls in a bowl with 2 cups of water. Let them soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour to soften. This step helps reduce cooking time and improves texture.
  2. Combine coconut milk and soaked tapioca: Pour the canned coconut milk into a medium saucepan. Add the soaked tapioca pearls along with the soaking water (if any remains). Stir to combine.
  3. Cook the pudding: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently, stirring often, for about 15-20 minutes or until the tapioca pearls turn translucent and the mixture thickens.
  4. Add sweetener and flavor: Stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.
  5. Cool or serve warm: Remove the pudding from heat. You can serve it warm immediately or transfer it to bowls and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours for a refreshing cold dessert.
  6. Garnish and enjoy: Before serving, sprinkle with your choice of toasted shredded coconut, fresh fruit, or nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest pudding, use full-fat coconut milk and stir often during cooking to prevent clumping.”

Tip: If you prefer a smoother pudding, you can blend the finished pudding briefly with an immersion blender before chilling.

Flavor variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the cooking coconut milk for warm spice notes. You can also swap the maple syrup for coconut sugar or date syrup for different sweetness profiles.

Fruit additions: Mango, pineapple, or passion fruit pair beautifully with coconut pudding. Layer fresh fruit on top or fold it in gently before chilling.

Make it nutty: Sprinkle toasted chopped almonds, pistachios, or pecans on top for a crunchy contrast.

Storage: Keep leftover pudding covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. The tapioca may thicken as it cools; stir in a splash of coconut milk before serving if needed.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1/2 cup)
Calories 190 kcal
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 10 g
Carbohydrates 20 g
Fiber 1 g
Sugars 8 g
Protein 1 g
Sodium 70 mg

Serving Suggestions

This coconut tapioca pudding shines as a dessert on its own but can be paired with a variety of accompaniments to elevate the experience. Try it alongside fresh tropical fruit like sliced mango or passion fruit for a vibrant presentation.

For a refreshing twist, spoon the pudding over crushed ice or serve it chilled with a sprig of mint. It also pairs wonderfully with spicy or savory dishes, offering a sweet, cooling contrast—perfect after a meal like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.

If you enjoy experimenting with flavors, drizzle a little coconut caramel sauce or top with a dollop of vegan whipped cream. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecan crackers crumbs on top.

Conclusion

This vegan coconut tapioca pudding is a delightful, easy-to-make dessert that brings tropical flavors and creamy textures together in perfect harmony. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s accessible for cooks of all levels and fits beautifully into plant-based lifestyles.

Whether you’re craving a cozy, warm treat or a refreshing chilled dessert, this pudding adapts to your preference. The versatility of the dish means you can customize it endlessly with fruits, nuts, or spices, making it a staple recipe to keep in your collection.

For more delicious and wholesome recipes, be sure to explore other favorites like the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe or the indulgent Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy every creamy, dreamy spoonful!

📖 Recipe Card: Coconut Tapioca Pudding Vegan

Description: A creamy and delicious vegan tapioca pudding made with coconut milk and small tapioca pearls. This dairy-free dessert is simple to prepare and perfect for a comforting treat.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup small pearl tapioca
  • 2 cups coconut milk (full fat)
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
  • Fresh fruit (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Soak tapioca pearls in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a saucepan, combine soaked tapioca, coconut milk, water, and salt.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tapioca pearls are translucent.
  5. Stir in maple syrup and vanilla extract, cook for another 2 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and let pudding cool slightly before serving.
  7. Serve warm or chilled, topped with shredded coconut and fresh fruit if desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 12g | Carbs: 28g

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Marta K

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