Bubble Egg Waffles, also known as Hong Kong Egg Waffles (Gai Daan Jai), are famous for their crispy exterior, soft and chewy center, and signature bubble shape. This easy homemade version uses simple pantry ingredients to recreate the classic street food that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy outside, soft and chewy inside
- Easy to make with basic ingredients
- No electric mixer required
- Ready in about 30 minutes
- Perfect with sweet or savory toppings
- Easy to customize with different flavors
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 50 g whole milk
- 25 g neutral oil (corn, sunflower, or vegetable oil)
- 20–30 g powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 70 g cake flour (low-protein flour)
- 10 g cornstarch
- 2 g baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
- Bubble waffle pan (stovetop or electric)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Pastry brush
- Wire cooling rack
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Milk
- Oil
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Add the Sugar
Whisk in the powdered sugar until fully dissolved.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift together:
- Cake flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Rest the Batter
Let the batter rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. This helps develop the signature chewy texture.
Step 5: Heat the Waffle Pan
Preheat the bubble waffle pan over medium heat.
Lightly brush both sides with oil.
Step 6: Cook the Waffles
- Fill the pan about ¾ full with batter.
- Close the pan immediately.
- Flip the pan over.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes.
- Flip again and cook another 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the waffle and place it on a wire rack for a few minutes. This helps keep the outside crispy.
Serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Bubble Waffles
- Use cake flour for the softest texture.
- Let the batter rest before cooking.
- Preheat the pan thoroughly.
- Avoid overmixing the batter.
- Cool the waffles on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
- Grease the pan lightly before every batch.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate
Replace 10 g of the flour with cocoa powder.
Matcha
Add 1 teaspoon matcha powder.
Vanilla
Increase vanilla extract to 1 teaspoon for a richer flavor.
Cinnamon
Add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Savory Version
Omit the sugar and mix in:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
- Black pepper
Serving Ideas
Serve your bubble waffles with:
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or bananas
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel sauce
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Nutella
- Powdered sugar
- Condensed milk
For a café-style dessert, roll the warm waffle into a cone and fill it with ice cream, fresh fruit, and whipped cream.
Storage
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer
Freeze with parchment paper between each waffle for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in:
- Oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
- Air fryer for 2–3 minutes
- Toaster until crispy
Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the waffles crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make bubble waffles without a bubble waffle pan?
Yes. A regular waffle maker can be used, although the traditional bubble shape and texture will be different.
Why is my batter too thick?
Add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the batter reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.
Why aren’t my waffles crispy?
The pan may not be hot enough, or the waffles may need a little longer to cook. Cooling them on a wire rack also helps keep them crisp.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours. Stir gently before using.
Can I freeze bubble waffles?
Yes. Cool completely before freezing. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Bubble Egg Waffles are crispy, light, and wonderfully chewy—just like the popular Hong Kong street food. With a handful of simple ingredients and a bubble waffle pan, you can enjoy this fun and delicious treat anytime. Customize them with your favorite toppings or flavors to create your own perfect waffle experience.
