Bubble Egg Waffles, also known as Hong Kong Egg Waffles or Gai Daan Jai, are famous for their crispy exterior, soft and chewy center, and signature bubble-shaped texture. These popular street-food waffles are lightly sweet with a rich vanilla aroma and can be enjoyed plain or topped with your favorite fruits, whipped cream, chocolate, or ice cream.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can easily recreate this classic treat at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy outside and soft, chewy inside
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- No electric mixer required
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacks
- Easy to customize with different flavors and toppings
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 50 g whole milk
- 25 g neutral oil (corn, sunflower, or vegetable oil)
- 20–30 g powdered sugar
- 70 g cake flour (low-protein flour)
- 10 g cornstarch
- 2 g aluminum-free baking powder
- Optional: ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment
- Bubble waffle pan (stovetop or electric)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring scale or measuring cups
- Pastry brush or paper towel for greasing
Instructions
1. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Egg
- Milk
- Oil
Mix until smooth.
2. Add Sugar
Whisk in the powdered sugar until completely dissolved.
If using vanilla extract, add it now.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift together:
- Cake flour
- Cornstarch
- Baking powder
Gradually whisk into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms.
Do not overmix.
4. Rest the Batter
Let the batter rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
This helps hydrate the flour and creates a softer, chewier texture.
5. Preheat the Waffle Pan
Heat the bubble waffle pan over medium heat until fully hot.
Lightly grease both sides with oil.
6. Cook the Waffles
Pour enough batter into the pan to fill it about three-quarters full.
Close the lid immediately and flip the pan over.
Cook for 2–3 minutes, flip again, and cook another 2–3 minutes, or until the waffle is golden brown and crisp.
7. Cool and Serve
Carefully remove the waffle and place it on a wire rack for a minute to crisp slightly.
Serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Bubble Waffles
- Rest the batter before cooking.
- Use cake flour for the best chewy texture.
- Fully preheat the waffle pan before adding batter.
- Lightly grease the pan before each batch.
- Avoid overmixing the batter.
- Cool the waffles on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
Flavor Variations
Chocolate
Replace 10 g of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Matcha
Add 1 teaspoon matcha powder.
Vanilla
Increase vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
Savory
Omit the sugar and add shredded cheese, herbs, or chopped scallions.
Topping Ideas
Serve Bubble Egg Waffles with:
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Chocolate sauce
- Nutella
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- Crushed nuts
Storage
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer
Freeze between sheets of parchment paper for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer until crisp.
Helpful Tips
- Batter should have the consistency of pancake batter.
- If the batter is too thick, add a little milk.
- If it’s too thin, whisk in a small amount of flour.
- Flip the pan immediately after closing it for evenly shaped bubbles.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture.
Nutrition (Per Waffle)
- Calories: Approximately 220
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sugar: 10 g
Nutrition values are approximate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bubble Egg Waffles without a bubble waffle pan?
Yes. A regular waffle maker can be used, although the waffles will not have the signature bubble shape.
Why are my waffles not crispy?
The pan may not be hot enough, or the waffles may not have cooked long enough. Cooling them on a wire rack also helps maintain crispness.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours and stir gently before using.
Can I freeze Bubble Egg Waffles?
Yes. Allow them to cool completely, freeze between parchment paper, and reheat in the oven or air fryer until crisp.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients while following the same preparation and cooking steps.
Final Thoughts
Authentic Bubble Egg Waffles are surprisingly simple to make at home. Their crisp exterior, soft chewy center, and unique bubble texture make them a fun and delicious treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time of day.
Enjoy them plain or customize them with your favorite toppings for a café-style dessert that’s sure to impress.
