Bubble waffles, commonly referred to as Gai Daan Jai (鸡蛋仔), originated in Hong Kong. They are now popular around the world as a fun dessert that can be made in many different ways. Egg waffles are fileld with toppings including ice cream, chocolate, and freakshakes.
Bubble waffles have a unique appearance, being a cross between a sponge cake, and waffle with a crispy shell. Their signature ‘bubble’ shape gives them an extraordinary appeal too.
How to Use a Bubble Waffle Pan
You’ll need a bubble waffle pan or maker, either stovetop or electric.
If using a stovetop bubble waffle pan:
Preheat both sides of the pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
Brush lightly with oil or non-stick spray on both sides.
Pour the batter (about ¾ cup) into the center and gently spread it.
Close the pan, flip it immediately to coat both sides.
Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, flipping halfway through.
Open carefully and remove with a spatula.
Ingredients
For the Waffle Batter:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tbsp melted butter or oil
Toppings (as shown in your image):
- Vanilla ice cream scoop
- Sliced fresh strawberries
- Oreo or other chocolate cookies
- Rainbow sprinkles
- Melted white chocolate or condensed milk drizzle
- Candy pearls or boba for extra crunch
How to Make Bubble Waffles
- Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt). In another bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light. Add milk, water, melted butter, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry until smooth. Rest batter for 30 minutes.
- Preheat waffle pan: Grease and heat both sides.
- Cook the waffle: Pour batter into the center of the pan. Close and flip. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Shape (optional): While warm, gently fold the waffle into a cone using a glass or cone mold.
- Assemble: Fill with a scoop of ice cream, add strawberries, cookies, sprinkles, and drizzle with white chocolate or syrup.
Variations & Substitutions
| Variation | What to Change |
| Chocolate Bubble Waffle | Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to batter |
| Matcha Waffle | Add 1 tbsp matcha powder to dry ingredients |
| Gluten-Free | Use gluten-free all-purpose flour |
| Vegan | Use plant milk, flax eggs, and oil instead of butter |
| Fruity | Top with mango, kiwi, blueberries, or bananas |
| Nutty Delight | Add peanut butter, chopped almonds, Nutella, or walnuts |
