I’m not exaggerating when I say that bubble waffles are the most fun snack I’ve ever eaten. You deserve the same warning I gave my colleague, Lauren, when she told me she was trying these bubble waffles: You’re not going to be able to stop eating them. You’ll want to keep going back for one more bubble. (Spoiler: It will not be just one more bite.)

With soft and spongy, cake-like spheres and a crispy, crunchy web that just might remind you of a cookie, bubble waffles are totally irresistible and incredibly fun to eat. Also known as egg waffles, egg puffs, and puffles, bubble waffles are a popular street food snack that originated in Hong Kong in the 1950s. They’re commonly rolled into a cone and filled with colorful ice cream or whipped cream, but they’re also really delicious (and still totally impressive) served flat with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh fruit. Or you can just pop them in your mouth one by one. There’s no wrong way to eat them.

What are bubble waffles?

The specific origin of bubble waffles, or gai daan jai, is unclear, but what we do know is that they were first made in Hong Kong after the war, most likely by a thrifty vendor trying to make the most of cracked or broken eggs by turning them into a humble pastry.

These days, there are shops and stands around the world selling bubble waffles, and you can even make them in your own kitchen.

Do I need special equipment to make bubble waffles?

Yes. You’ll need a bubble waffle maker to make bubble waffles. There are electric and stovetop bubble waffle makers. We’re partial to the electric version, as it’s easier to control the temperature.

Bubble waffles versus regular waffles

There are a few differences that set bubble waffles apart from American or Belgian-style waffles.

Bubble waffle toppings

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