Bubble Waffles at Home? Trader Joe's Has You Covered!

If you're a fan of bubble tea (also known as boba), then you've likely seen bubble waffles sold alongside it. Known as "gai daan zai" in Cantonese, these delicious treats first appeared on Hong Kong's streets in the 1950s. Later, they earned the nickname "Bubble Waffles" due to their resemblance to bubble wrap. Over the years, they have become a staple in cafes, street stalls, and home kitchens. Now, you can find them in the freezer section of your local Trader Joe's!

Trader Joe's Bubble Waffles are made from coconut milk, wheat flour, cane sugar, rice bran oil, and vanilla paste. These waffles are chewy, sweet yet savory, and incredibly versatile. You can heat them up straight from the freezer using an air fryer, oven, or microwave. Once heated, they develop crispy edges while remaining soft and mochi-like inside. They can be topped with a variety of ingredients, from fresh fruits and whipped cream to cookie butter and bananas, or even ice cream—completely up to your imagination.

Compared to traditional bubble waffles, Trader Joe's version has a more pronounced vanilla flavor. Without eggs, they lack the traditional eggy aroma but instead offer a rich coconut scent. They are slightly sweeter, very crispy, and have a hollow interior. The addition of tapioca starch gives them an extra chewy texture. Each box contains four waffles, but they are not individually packaged, so if you don't finish them all at once, you'll need to store them yourself.

Trader Joe's Bubble Waffles are a delightful blend of tradition and innovation, perfect for both sweet and savory cravings. Whether you're looking to relive the flavors of Hong Kong street food or create unique culinary experiences at home, these bubble waffles are a fantastic choice. Next time you're at Trader Joe's, make sure to grab a box and try this delicious and convenient new product!