Description
Brazilian Coconut Pudding (Cuscuz de Tapioca) is a no-bake, traditional dessert made with tapioca pearls, coconut milk, and sweetened condensed milk. It offers a creamy, chewy texture and tropical flavor, perfect served chilled for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup small tapioca pearls (not instant)
2 cups boiling water
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 cup whole milk (or plant-based alternative)
1/2 cup sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus more for topping)
Optional: condensed milk drizzle for serving
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, pour boiling water over the tapioca pearls. Stir and let soak for about 15 minutes until slightly translucent.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, sugar (if using), salt, and vanilla extract. Stir frequently and heat until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot milk mixture over the soaked tapioca pearls. Stir until fully combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut and transfer the mixture to a greased 8x8-inch dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
- Before serving, sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top and drizzle with condensed milk if desired.
- Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Use only small tapioca pearls, not instant or quick-cooking.
The pudding sets best when chilled overnight.
Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based milk and coconut condensed milk.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
Add fruits like pineapple or mango for variation, or sprinkle with toasted coconut.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (1/9 of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
