Irresistible Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert Recipe

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s a certain bliss that comes with warm weather and the sweet scent of fresh strawberries wafting through the kitchen. This time, I found myself craving something light yet indulgent, and that s when I stumbled upon an idea that transformed my afternoon: Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert. Each spoonful is a delightful dance of flavors that feels both tropical and comforting, making it a perfect treat to share with loved ones.

As I mixed the soft, chewy tapioca pearls with the luscious coconut milk, the vibrant strawberries, and a hint of sweetened condensed milk, I couldn t help but feel excited. The finished dessert wasn t just visually stunning; it was surprisingly easy to create. Whether you re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dessert is sure to impress. And if you have a bit of patience to chill it in the fridge, the flavors meld beautifully, creating an experience you won t forget. Let s dive into this recipe and unlock the magic of this creamy delight!

Why is this Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert a must-try?

Simplicity at its finest: This dessert requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Bursting with flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy coconut creates a taste sensation that transports you to a tropical paradise.
Customizable and versatile: Feel free to swap strawberries for your favorite fruits or adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Impressive presentation: With its colorful layers and playful textures, this dessert looks as delightful as it tastes, sure to wow guests.
For an elevated experience, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or try pairing it with another comforting recipe from your collection perhaps a decadent Chocolate Lava Cake?
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, everyone will be reaching for seconds!

Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert Ingredients

For the Tapioca Base

• Tapioca pearls These small pearls create that signature chewy texture in your creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert.
• Coconut milk Adds rich creaminess and a delightful tropical flavor that pairs perfectly with strawberries.
• Milk Helps create a balanced creaminess; you can use almond milk as a dairy-free substitute if preferred.

For the Strawberry Mixture

• Strawberries Freshly chopped strawberries offer vibrant flavor and a beautiful pop of color; feel free to swap for your favorite berries!
• Strawberry jam Enhances the strawberry flavor and provides a lovely sweetness; you can use other fruit jams if desired.
• Sweetened condensed milk Brings a luscious sweetness; adjust quantity to suit your taste for sweetness.

For the Topping

• Coconut jellies (nata de coco) These chewy bites add a fun texture and tropical flair to your dessert!

Gather these delightful ingredients, and let s transform them into an unforgettable creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert that s sure to charm your family and friends!

How to Make Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert

1. Boil Water: Bring a medium pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the tapioca pearls, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 25 30 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pearls become fully translucent.

2. Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, carefully drain the tapioca pearls using a fine mesh strainer. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch, then transfer to a large mixing bowl.

3. Blend: In a blender, combine half of the chopped strawberries, coconut milk, regular milk, and strawberry jam. Blend until smooth, and then pour this mixture over the cooked tapioca in the bowl.

4. Combine: Gently stir in the remaining chopped strawberries, sweetened condensed milk, and the jar of coconut jellies (nata de coco). Mix everything together until fully combined for a deliciously creamy mixture.

5. Serve or Chill: You can enjoy your creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert right away at room temperature, or for a cold treat, chill it in the refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.

Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of freshness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert?

A delightful dessert deserves a well-rounded meal to complement its sweet flavors and airy textures.

• Coconut Rice: This rich, creamy side echoes the coconut notes in your dessert, creating a delightful harmony. It s perfect for soaking up any extra juices.
• Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa: The light, tangy salsa adds a fresh and vibrant contrast, balancing the creaminess of the tapioca dessert. A perfect combination of flavors!
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits will add a refreshing crunch and cleanse the palate between bites of the sweet tapioca. Go for seasonal berries for extra bursts of flavor.
• Lemon Sorbet: The bright acidity of lemon sorbet provides a zesty counterpoint to your dessert s sweetness, making each spoonful even more exciting.
• Spiced Chai Latte: A warm and fragrant drink perfectly complements the tropical flavors, wrapping you in comfort and cozy vibes. Consider a dash of cinnamon for an extra swirl of spice!
• Chocolate Chip Cookies: The chewy cookie bites will offer a delightful contrast in texture, creating a blissful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone reaching for more.

These pairings bring together a lovely blend of flavors and textures, elevating your dessert experience into a memorable meal!

Expert Tips for Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert

• Perfect Texture: Make sure to simmer the tapioca pearls until they are fully translucent, which indicates they re cooked correctly. Undercooked pearls can be unpleasantly crunchy!

• Balancing Flavors: Taste your creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert before serving. Adjust sweetness with more sweetened condensed milk or jam according to your preference; you want it just right!

• Cooling Time: While it s tempting to dig in right away, chilling the dessert for an hour helps meld the flavors beautifully and enhances the overall experience.

• Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. If they re out of season, frozen strawberries can work in a pinch, just ensure they re thawed and drained.

• Innovative Substitutions: If desired, switch out the strawberries for mangoes or blueberries for a unique twist on the creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert that still delights the palate!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the tapioca pearls and blend the creamy mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store the cooked pearls and blended mixture separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their texture and prevent clumping. Additionally, you can chop the strawberries ahead of time and keep them in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When it s time to serve, just combine everything add in the chopped strawberries and coconut jellies to the blended mixture, and you ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress with minimal effort! Enjoy the time-saving benefits and deliciousness of this refreshing treat.

Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists to enhance your delicious dessert experience!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut milk with almond or oat milk for a delightful dairy-free version that s still creamy and satisfying.
• Fruit Medley: Swap strawberries with chopped mangoes or blueberries to bring a new fruity dynamic to your dessert. Each fruit will lend its unique flavor!
• Sweetener Swap: Instead of sweetened condensed milk, try maple syrup or agave nectar; this adjustment adds a delightful nuance to the sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts, like almonds or pistachios, for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to infuse warmth and spice, giving the dessert a cozy twist.
• Chocolate Variation: Add cocoa powder to half of the mixture for a chocolatey layer that complements the strawberries beautifully. A match made in heaven!
• Zesty Twist: A squeeze of fresh lime juice will enhance the flavors with a refreshing zing, making each bite pop!
• Coconut Flakes: Top with toasted coconut flakes to amplify the tropical essence and create a lovely crunchy topping.

Unleash your creativity and have fun crafting the perfect version of this creamy indulgence!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert

Fridge: Store your creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep it fresh and ready for snacking!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dessert in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge before enjoying for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat portions in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat. Stir well afterward to ensure even warmth.

Creamy Strawberry Coconut Tapioca Dessert Recipe FAQs

What s the best way to select ripe strawberries?
Absolutely! When choosing strawberries, look for those that are plump, firm, and bright red in color. Avoid any with dark spots all over or that feel soft and mushy, as these are signs of overripeness. If fresh strawberries aren t available, frozen ones can be a great alternative just make sure they re thawed and well-drained before using!

How do I store leftover creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert?
You can store your creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it s well-sealed to keep it fresh and avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge. It might be tough not to eat it all at once, but trust me, it s worth saving for later!

Can I freeze the creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze the dessert in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To freeze, scoop the dessert into the container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture when serving.

What should I do if my tapioca pearls are still crunchy after cooking?
No worries! If your tapioca pearls aren t fully cooked and remain crunchy, simply return them to the heat and simmer in a little more water for an additional 5 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they cook, stirring occasionally, until they become fully translucent. This will ensure you get that perfect chewy texture in your dessert.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dessert?
Very! If you re catering to specific dietary needs, you can modify this recipe easily. For a dairy-free version, substitute the regular milk with almond or oat milk. Just double-check that your strawberry jam doesn t contain any allergens if you re serving those with food sensitivities. Also, the coconut jellies (nata de coco) are generally safe for most diets, but always check the packaging if allergies are a concern.

Can I add other fruits to the creamy strawberry coconut tapioca dessert?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely customize this dessert by adding your favorite fruits. Feel free to substitute strawberries with mangoes, blueberries, or even pineapple for a delightful twist. Just chop them into small pieces and mix them in for added flavor and texture!