If you’d like to freeze eggs with the hope of extending their shelf life even further, you’re in luck! Chicken eggs can be frozen, as long as you freeze them the right way. Here’s everything you need to know.
Type of Eggs You Can Freeze
Raw whole eggs, eggs whites, and egg yolks can all be successfully frozen and will last up to a year. Cooked eggs can also be frozen, though they do best if the whites and yolks are whisked together before they’re cooked. While you can technically freeze peeled hard-boiled eggs, you’ll have better luck freezing a frittata or a batch of breakfast burritos. These types of dishes will last up to six months in your freezer.
How to Freeze Whole Eggs
Unfortunately, you can’t just toss a carton of raw eggs into the freezer. If you do, the shells will crack when the whites and yolks freeze and naturally expand, leaving you with a mess to clean up. Instead, to freeze whole eggs, crack them into a bowl and gently whisk until the whites and yolks are just combined. Pour the beaten eggs into an empty ice cube tray, freeze the tray until solid, then pop the cubes out into a zip-top freezer bag and store the bag in the freezer. Each cube is equal to about half a large egg.
How to Freeze Raw Egg Whites
Freezing raw egg whites is even easier. Just pour the whites into an empty ice cube tray, freeze solid, and store the cubes in a freezer bag. One cube is equal to one large egg white.
How to Freeze Raw Egg Yolks
Raw egg yolks need a little more care when freezing. They can thicken and gel in the freezer, which is why it’s ideal if they’re whisked with the whites and frozen as whole eggs. You can freeze them separately, though, with the addition of a little sugar or salt to prevent them from thickening. First, gently whisk the yolks. Then, for every cup of whisked yolks, stir in 1/2 teaspoon salt or 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar, depending on if you plan to use them for something savory or sweet down the road. Pour the yolks into an empty ice cube tray, freeze solid, and store the cubes in a freezer bag. One cube is equal to two large eggs yolks. Store cooked eggs, whether in casseroles or wraps, in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag in the freezer. Ideally, portion these cooked items out so you can easily take out and reheat what you need.
How to Defrost Eggs
If you’ve frozen your eggs correctly, they can be used just like fresh eggs. Thaw what you need in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with your recipe. Defrosted egg whites may have a little trouble achieving quite the same volume when whipped as fresh egg. Let them stand at room temperature for 30 minutes before whipping to help negate this. Cooked egg dishes can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight or defrosted and reheated straight from the freezer, either in your oven or microwave.
