Indulge in Ice Cream Served in Crispy, Cavernous Waffle Trays

The Appeal of Waffle Trays

Waffle trays have become an increasingly popular way to serve food, especially frozen desserts like ice cream. Their unique structure with squares gives them an aesthetic appeal, while also providing practical benefits. When biting into a waffle bowl filled with ice cream, the contrast of textures is delicious. The crispy exterior of the waffle against the cold, creamy interior is simply sublime.

A Creative Way to Present Food

Using waffle trays allows restaurants and food vendors to get creative with their presentations. Ice cream and milkshakes particularly lend themselves to serving in edible waffle bowls. The sweetness of the waffle pairs nicely with the rich and creamy frozen treats. But waffle trays don't have to just be for cold desserts. At some eateries, customers can enjoy waffle taco shells overflowing with a variety of fillings from eggs and cheese to pulled pork or beef. Their ability to hold a variety of ingredients without getting soggy makes them highly functional and fun.

Added Crunch and Texture

Every bite of a waffle tray delivers extra crunch to whatever dish it holds. The crispiness of the waffle contrasts with soft and creamy interiors, creating an appealing textural experience. Ice cream starts melting almost immediately, allowing its cold creaminess to seep into the nooks and crannies of the waffle bowl. Each bite offers the pleasing duo of a cold, smooth scoop of ice cream wrapped in the warm, crispy embrace of sweet waffle.

Waffle Trays Offer Portability

Waffle cones make eating ice cream on the go easy, but waffle bowls take that portability even further. Their size and shape allow you to load up hearty portions of ice cream or other foods without worrying about drips or spills. The waffle tray’s edible nature means you can simply bite right into the bowl itself as you’re eating. No extra utensils required! This makes waffle trays a convenient option for enjoying desserts, snacks, and full meals anywhere from festivals to picnics to backyard barbecues.

Customize Your Treat

Part of the enjoyment of waffle trays is customizing your own creation. At frozen yogurt and ice cream shops that offer waffle bowls, you can build your perfect treat from the bottom up. Simply choose your delicious base, perhaps a creamy chocolate or fruity sorbet. Then pile on an array of toppings from fruit preserves and nuts to chunks of brownies or cookies. The sweet pockets of a waffle bowl make an ideal canvas to build a frozen masterpiece. Every spoonful delivers a different combination of flavors and textures in one hand-held package.

They Come in Miniatures Too

While a standard waffle bowl can hold nearly a pint of ice cream, part of their appeal is they come in miniature as well. Individual bite-sized waffle trays allow you to sample a variety of flavors. These small crisp waffles cradle a single scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream and fruit. They provide the perfect one-or-two bite experience. The mini waffle bowls make an excellent addition to dessert trays at parties where guests can enjoy a selection of sweet samplings.

Where to Find Waffle Trays

If you’ve had your interest piqued in waffle trays, you may be wondering where you can get them. Many ice cream parlors and self-serve frozen yogurt shops offer waffle bowls and cones. But you can also find ready-made ones to prepare at home. Grocery stores often stock them near other ice cream accessories like cones and sundae dishes. You’ll also find them at big box stores, specialty cooking shops, and online retailers. Pick up a batch and unleash your creativity to make these crispy, cakey treats part of your next meal or dessert!

FAQs

What are waffle trays made of?

Waffle trays are typically made from a batter containing flour, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and leavening agents like baking powder or yeast. The batter is poured into a mold with square pockets and baked until crispy and golden brown.

Are waffle trays safe to eat?

Yes, waffle trays are entirely edible. They are cooked at high enough temperatures to eliminate food safety risks. Of course, people with wheat/gluten sensitivities would want to avoid consuming them.

How long do waffle trays stay fresh?

Waffle trays are best consumed shortly after baking, but they can keep for a day or two if stored in an airtight container. The squares have a tendency to lose their crispiness and become soggy over time. For the best texture, it’s ideal to eat them soon after baking.

What are some creative ways to use waffle trays?

While waffle trays classically hold scoops of ice cream, they work with anything from fro-yo to pudding. You can also get creative with savory fillings like eggs, nachos, or potatoes and top with meats, veggies, and cheese. Their versatility makes waffle trays fun vessels for customizing sweet and savory dishes.