Easy and Delicious Homemade Hong Kong Bubble Waffles
If you have already made my Japanese milk bread recipe for breakfast, would you be ready to try something new and exciting for breakfast or snacks? These easy-to-make and delicious homemade Hong Kong bubble waffles have a unique twist on traditional waffles, with a crispy exterior and a soft, sponge-like interior. My easy-to-follow recipe will guide you in creating the perfect balance of crispy and chewy textures as close as you can get to the ones found on the streets of Hong Kong. So step out of your breakfast routine and give this unique-shaped waffle a try.
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Growing up in Hong Kong, bubble waffles were most Hong Kong People’s beloved treat sold by street vendors. This little street snack always reminded me of my childhood and held the sweetest and most fond memories of my grandmother. She always bought it for me whenever she found it selling on one of those wooden street vendor carts.
I’m excited to share my easy recipe for this homemade bubble waffle I’ve made for years before it gained global popularity. Only people in Hong Kong knew about it back then, but now you can find it worldwide, from North America to Playa Del Carman, Mexico, to even Dubai. It’s incredible to see how this Hong Kong street food has become a global phenomenon, and I’m thrilled to share my version with you.
Recipe Snapshot
EASE: Easier to make than you might think
PROS: It’s delicious and more unique than traditional waffles.
CONS: You must get the specific bubble waffle iron to create this special treat.
WOULD I MAKE THIS AGAIN? Absolutely! This is a big hit at kids’ parties. I know because I served these bubble waffles at my stepdaughter’s birthday party a few years ago when she was younger. All of her friends still remember this special treat today.
What is a Hong Kong Bubble Waffle?
A Hong Kong bubble waffle comes by many names. The actual name in Cantonese is Gai Daan Jai 雞蛋仔; Manys called it Hong Kong egg waffles, egg puffs, or Hong Kong eggettes, a popular street snack from Hong Kong. It is made from a sweet, eggy batter cooked in a special waffle iron with hemispherical indents, resulting in a unique honeycomb-like pattern that is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The bubbles can be separated and eaten individually, making it a fun and satisfying treat to enjoy on the go. It is typically served plain in Hong Kong without toppings.
What is the history and origin of this waffle?
The Hong Kong bubble waffle has a rich history that dates back to the 1950s. It was created by a street vendor looking for a way to use up broken eggs that he could not sell. He mixed the eggs with flour, sugar, and evaporated milk to create a batter that he cooked in a specially designed-waffle iron with spherical molds. The result was a unique waffle with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. This sweet and nostalgic treat has quickly become a popular street snack in Hong Kong.
What is so special about this unique-looking waffle?
Unique cake-like texture:
The batter for these waffles contains baking powder, cake flour, and potato flour. It causes the batter to expand and form small air pockets as it cooks. This creates a softer, spongy texture that is unlike any other type of waffle.
Visually pleasing:
Who doesn’t like to try waffles shaped like bubble wrap? They are visually distinctive and fun to eat. You can decorate it with fruit, ice cream, or fun Asian candies and snacks.
Offers a variety of flavors:
Another aspect that sets Hong Kong Bubble Waffles apart is their flavor. Its spongy and crispy texture and sweet taste pair well with many toppings such as whipped cream, fruits, or ice cream to enhance its flavor.
What’s the difference between traditional American waffles and Hong Kong Bubble Waffles?
While both of these waffles have their unique characteristics regarding texture, taste, and looks. But they are all equally tasty, representing their unique history and culture.
American waffles:
- Texture: Denser, more cake-like texture since they do not contain baking powder.
- Taste: It is not as sweet and has a more neutral flavor. People usually add toppings such as whipped cream, fruits, syrup, or ice cream to enhance the flavor. People usually enjoy this style of waffle during breakfast.
- Looks: It has a traditional uniform grid pattern with deeper and square-shaped indentations.
- Cooking Methods: Made on a traditional waffle iron or griddle.
Hong Kong bubble waffles:
- Texture: It has a crispy shell with a spongy and cake-like interior texture.
- Taste: It tends to be sweeter and eggier due to adding sugar and eggs to the batter. Therefore, people in Hong Kong traditionally do not add toppings, spreads, or syrup to the bubble waffle.
- Looks: It has a distinctive “bubbled” appearance due to the pockets of air that form in the batter as it cooks.
- Cooking Methods: It is typically made in a specialized waffle iron that creates the signature bubble shape.
What is the difference between a traditional and a bubble Waffle Iron?
Traditional waffle iron:
The style of this waffle iron has shallow pockets and a grid pattern on the surface of the waffles. The size tends to be larger and more stationary. The waffle iron is typically heated to a lower temperature, and the batter is cooked more slowly, resulting in a denser, softer texture.
Hong Kong bubble waffle iron:
In comparison, this special waffle iron has deep pockets that create a bubbly, honeycomb-like texture on the surface of the waffles. The size is smaller and more portable. It comes with either a stove top style or an electric style. The waffle iron is typically heated to a higher temperature, and the batter is cooked quickly, resulting in a crisp, light, bubbly texture.
Which equipment is best to use to make this waffle?
You will need a particular appliance called a bubble waffle maker to make Hong Kong bubble waffles. The design is specifically made to create the unique bubble shape of the waffle. Ensure you find one with a non-stick surface, which can come in electric or stovetop models. I have both pieces of equipment at home, and let me tell you the difference.
Electric bubble waffle maker:
- Electric bubble waffle makers are designed specifically to make Hong Kong-style bubble waffles, ensuring consistent results every time.
- They are easy to use, with straightforward controls and a timer that let you know when your waffles are ready.
- The non-stick surface of electric bubble waffle makers ensures that your waffles come out ideally every time without sticking or tearing.
- These makers come with adjustable temperature controls to ensure that the waffles are cooked to perfection every time.
Stovetop bubble waffle pan:
- Stovetop bubble waffle makers are affordable and do not require electricity, making them an excellent option for those on a budget or for outdoor use.
- These waffle makers are compact and easy to store, taking up minimal counter or storage space in your kitchen.
- Stovetop bubble waffle makers are more affordable than electric ones.
Where can I purchase these types of equipment?
You can purchase electric and stove-top bubble waffle makers from online retailers like Amazon, Williams Sonoma, or Food52. You can also find them at specialty kitchen stores or online marketplaces like eBay.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- Cake flour (Low Gluten) – This lower protein content results in a lighter and more delicate texture, ideal for achieving bubble waffles’ airy, crispy, yet chewy texture.
- Baking powder – It is a leavening agent that creates carbon dioxide gas when it reacts with liquid, which causes the batter to expand and rise. An essential ingredient helps achieve that signature fluffy and bubbly texture.
- Custard powder – It helps create a richer, dense texture and more flavorful batter, adding to the waffles’ overall chewiness and “bounce” of the waffles.
- Potato flour – The starch in potato flour helps to absorb moisture; it helps to create a crispy exterior and a chewy interior texture. It also gives the batter a more elastic and stretchy quality.
- Eggs – The proteins in eggs help to give the waffle a light and fluffy texture, while the fat in egg yolks adds richness and flavor. Eggs also act as a binder.
- Sugar – When the waffles are cooked, the sugar caramelizes, creating a crunchy, golden-brown crust outside, while the inside remains soft and chewy.
- Evaporated milk – It is made by removing about 60% of the water from regular milk. It adds richness and depth of flavor to the batter.
- Vegetable oil – It adds moisture and helps create the signature crunchy exterior of the waffle while keeping the interior soft and chewy.
- Water – It helps to hydrate the dry ingredients and create the right consistency for the batter. Without adding water, the batter would be thick and hard to work with, resulting in a dense and heavy waffle.
- Vanilla extract: It enhances the flavor profile of the waffle, providing a subtle hint of sweetness and a delightful aroma.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make these waffles:
Step 1 – Prep dry ingredients: Sift cake flour, baking powder, custard powder, and potato flour in a medium bowl.
Step 2 – Prepare wet ingredients: Whisk eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar in a stand mixer, then gradually add evaporated milk and water while mixing.
Step 3 – Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture in three separate batches. Avoid adding all the dry ingredients at once. Once combined, add vegetable oil to the mixture.
Step 4 – Let the batter rest: Transfer the batter to a pitcher and place it in the fridge. Allow it to rest and rise for about an hour. This is a crucial step; please do not skip it.
Step 5 – Make the waffle: Preheat your waffle maker to 275°F or set the temperature to Medium heat if you use a stovetop waffle pan. Pour the batter onto the mold, and spread it evenly using the bottom plate. Cover the mold with the top plate, and flip it over to distribute the batter evenly on both sides. Cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown.
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My favorite bubble waffle toppings ideas:
- Fresh fruit: topped with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries, bananas, mixed berries, pineapples, or mango. You can also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the fruit for added sweetness.
- Chocolate sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a rich, indulgent flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade by melting chocolate chips with milk.
- Nutella: Add European flair to this Asian waffle by spreading this classic topping with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Ice cream: You can go crazy with whatever ice cream you want. The vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry is my go-to option.
- Whipped cream: You can also top a dollop of whipped cream with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or chopped nuts for added flavor.
- Caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- Decorate with candies or Chocolate: One popular way to serve Hong Kong bubble waffles is by decorating them with Asian-style snacks like Pocky chocolate sticks, Chocolate Koala Cookies by Lotte, Gummy bears, Kitkat, Oreo Cookies, or marshmallows.
- The traditional way: Enjoy it without toppings by peeling off each bubble and savoring its unique texture and flavor.
Recipe tips and tricks:
- Once the waffle is cooked, it may have a slightly soft exterior. To achieve the signature crispy texture of Hong Kong bubble waffles, try using a small fan to blow on the waffle for about a minute. This will help create an extra crispy finish that makes the waffle even more delicious.
- Regardless of the type of bubble waffle maker you’re using, avoid constantly opening and closing the bubble waffle irons while cooking. Doing so can disrupt the cooking process and lead to undercooked or overcooked waffles.
- Practice makes perfect. Expect trial and error before achieving your waffles’ ideal timing, doneness, and the right texture. Take note of your machine’s or stove’s temperature settings and timing once you’ve figured them out. For me, I wasted many waffles until I find tune my perfect settings.
- Flip the waffle maker after filling the bottom iron and again halfway through cooking to ensure even batter distribution.
- Don’t overfill the waffle maker with batter. Use just enough to fill the wells, as the batter will expand as it cooks.
- Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter and airier texture.
- A helpful tip for those using an electronic waffle iron is to place a small heatproof tray underneath the iron plates. This clever trick helps catch overflow batter, ensuring a clean and mess-free cooking experience.
Storage tips:
- To save the batter for the next day, simply whisk it again before use. The oil in the batter may cause it to separate after a few hours, but a quick mix with a whisk will do the trick. This way, you can cook waffles with the same batter for up to two days.
- I wouldn’t suggest you freeze the batter for future use. It is best to make the batter as you need.
- I have never tried freezing Hong Kong bubble waffles before. Instead, I usually make enough waffles for immediate consumption and refrigerate any leftover batter for up to one day. This recipe typically yields about 6 waffles, suitable for a small family. This style of waffle is best to consume immediately.
FAQs about Hong Kong Bubble Waffles:
You should also try these delicious dessert recipes:
Conclusion:
To summarize, making your own Hong Kong-style bubble waffles is a fun and easy way to bring a touch of street food magic into your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and some know-how, you can create a batch of these crispy, airy treats perfect for a quick and easy dessert, a fun weekend activity with kids, or a perfect treat for any party. Let’s impress your friends with your newly gained culinary skill and whip up a batch today.
If you enjoyed this Hong Kong Bubble Waffle recipe, comment below and let me know how it turned out! Remember to follow me on social media for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.
Enjoy and Bon Appétit!
Easy and Delicious Homemade Hong Kong Bubble Waffles
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6 waffles 1x
Description
Hong Kong-style bubble waffles are a popular street food with a crispy, chewy texture and a unique appearance. This recipe shares my authentic and delicious recipe for making these tasty treats at home. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional plain bubble waffle or prefer to experiment with different toppings and flavors, my recipe will show you how to create perfect bubble waffles every time. Follow my step-by-step instructions and enjoy this beloved Hong Kong snack in the comfort of your own home!
Ingredients
1 1/2 Cups – Cake flour (Low Gluten flour)
1 Tablespoon – Baking powder
3 Tablespoons – Custard powder
1/2 Cup – Potato flour
2 Large size eggs
1 Cup – Sugar
2 Teaspoons – Vanilla Extract
1/2 Cup – Evaporated milk
1/2 Cup – Vegetable oil
1 1/2 Cups – Water
Instructions
Step 1 – Prep dry ingredients: Sift cake flour, baking powder, custard powder, and potato flour together.
Step 2 – Prepare wet ingredients: Whisk eggs, vanilla extract, and sugar in a stand mixer, then gradually add evaporated milk and water while mixing.
Step 3 – Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture in three separate batches. Avoid adding all the dry ingredients at once. Once combined, add vegetable oil to the mixture.
Step 4 – Let the batter rest: Transfer the batter to a pitcher and place it in the fridge. Allow it to rest and rise for about an hour.
Step 5 – Make the waffle: Preheat your waffle maker to 275°F. Pour the batter onto the mold, and spread it evenly using the bottom plate. Cover the mold with the top plate, and flip it over to distribute the batter evenly on both sides. Cook for 5 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
Use a little fan to blow on the cooked waffle for a minute to achieve the signature crispy texture.
Flip the waffle maker after filling the bottom iron and again halfway through cooking to ensure even batter distribution.
Avoid frequently opening and closing the waffle maker or iron as it can disrupt the cooking process and affect the final product.
Use a pitcher to pour the batter into the waffle maker or iron to minimize spills and make pouring easier.
Let the batter rest in the refrigerator for an hour for a spongier texture.
Practice makes perfect. Expect trial and error before achieving your waffles’ ideal timing, doneness, and texture. Take note of your machine’s or stove’s temperature settings and timing once you’ve figured them out.
Use a small heatproof tray under your electronic waffle iron to catch any overspilled batter and keep your cooking area clean.
- Prep Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Keywords: Hong Kong, Bubble Waffle, Eggetts, Egg Puffs, Hong Kong Street food, Snacks, Dessert, Sweet toppings.
I have tried many Hong Kong Style Egg Bubble waffles and this recipe is by far the most authentic one!
★★★★★