Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a fusion of rich, earthy flavors and a unique texture, combining the slightly nutty taste of pistachios with the refreshing, grassy notes of matcha green tea. The tapioca pearls offer a chewy, bubble tea-inspired experience, while the matcha mousse adds a creamy and indulgent touch. Whether you’re a matcha fan or looking for something new, this is a treat that’s both playful and satisfying.

Ingredients

Tapioca Pearls:

1/2 cup large tapioca pearls
3 cups water
2 tbsp shelled pistachios, finely chopped
2 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp pistachio extract (optional)

Matcha Mousse:

1 tsp matcha green tea powder
2 tbsp warm water
1 cup heavy cream, chilled
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

To Assemble:

2 tbsp shelled pistachios, roughly chopped (for garnish)
Fresh mint leaves (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Matcha-Pistachio Bubble Tea Pudding

Directions

1. Prepare the Tapioca Pearls:

Bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the tapioca pearls and stir gently to prevent clumping.
Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the pearls for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pearls are translucent with a slight dot in the center.
Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let it stand for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse the pearls under cold water.
Toss the pearls with 2 tbsp sugar, finely chopped pistachios, and pistachio extract (if using). Set the mixture aside to cool.

2. Make the Matcha Mousse:

In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder with 2 tbsp warm water until smooth. Let it cool.
In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until medium peaks form.
Gently fold the cooled matcha mixture into the whipped cream until evenly combined. Keep the mousse refrigerated until needed.

3. Assemble the Dessert:

Divide the pistachio tapioca pearls evenly among four serving glasses.
Spoon or pipe the matcha mousse over the pearls.
Chill the assembled desserts in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

4. Garnish and Serve:

Just before serving, sprinkle each dessert with roughly chopped pistachios and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Notes

Vegan Option: For a vegan version, substitute coconut cream and plant-based whipping cream, and ensure that the tapioca pearls are free from additives like milk or gelatin.
Pistachio Extract: The pistachio extract is optional, but it enhances the nutty aroma and deepens the flavor of the dessert.
Adjusting Matcha Flavor: You can adjust the matcha powder to your taste—use less for a milder flavor or more for a stronger matcha taste.
Serving: Serve with a bubble tea straw for an authentic bubble tea experience!

Storage

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you’re preparing the dessert in advance, you can assemble it the day before serving, ensuring it’s well-chilled and ready to enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut besides pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or cashews, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this dessert can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. In fact, the flavors meld together even more after sitting overnight.

Is the matcha mousse very strong?

The matcha mousse has a mild, creamy matcha flavor. If you prefer a stronger flavor, add more matcha powder to the mousse until you reach your desired intensity.

Can I make this dessert without tapioca pearls?

If you’re looking for a different texture, you can replace the tapioca pearls with another chewy ingredient, such as agar pearls, or skip them entirely and serve the matcha mousse on its own.

Conclusion

This Matcha-Pistachio Bubble Tea Pudding is a unique and fun dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of matcha mousse and the chewy, nutty pistachio tapioca pearls. It’s a delightful fusion dessert that’s perfect for a light summer treat or a fun, unexpected dessert at dinner parties. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a dish that will impress both matcha lovers and those new to this iconic green tea flavor!