Can you freeze eggs?

Well yes, you can. But our food experts say there’s a right way… and a wrong way.

Cracking-eggs

Have you seen that trend on TikTok where people freeze whole eggs in their shells, then peel, slice and fry them? Ickiness aside, it makes for quite compelling viewing, as each individual slice cooks and looks like a tiny little egg. 

(Image: @instafoodnz)

Cute, but not recommended. It’s a food safety thing, apparently.

Yes, it is possible to freeze whole eggs, as well as egg whites and egg yolks separately. But our experts say there are certain guidelines to follow, to ensure you’re doing it safely.

How to freeze whole eggs

Don’t freeze them in the shells, a la TikTok. Instead, whisk yolks and whites together until just combined. Freeze whisked eggs in ice cube trays then pop out and place into a freezer bag, expelling the air. 

Food writer and recipe tester Tracy Rutherford says: “Alternatively, you can pour the whisked eggs into a freezer bag and lie flat to freeze. Label the container/bag with the amount of eggs it contains and date. Frozen whole eggs can keep in the freezer for up to 12 months.”

How to thaw frozen eggs

You should always place frozen eggs in the fridge to slowly defrost. NEVER do it in the microwave or leave them out on a hot day. This means it may take up to 24 hours, depending on volume. 

“If you use this method, make sure you use the eggs within two days,” recommends Tracy.

How to freeze egg yolks

To freeze egg yolks, whisk them in a bowl with a pinch of salt (or about 1/4 teaspoon to six yolks). Freeze in ice cube trays then pop out and place into a freezer bag, expelling the air. Label and use within six months. 

Food writer Tracy Rutherford tells us: “Egg yolks take on a different texture after freezing, which makes them difficult to use. Adding salt will prevent that. Don’t forget to label the container with the amount of egg yolks it contains.”

How to thaw frozen egg yolks

You can defrost egg yolks in the fridge for up to 24 hours, depending on volume. Use them within two days.

How to freeze egg whites

Tracy says: “To freeze egg whites, place them in ice cube trays then pop out and place into a labelled freezer bag, expelling the air. Alternatively, just pour egg whites straight into a freezer bag. Lie the bag flat to freeze as this will help the egg whites defrost quicker. Use up the egg whites within 12 months.”

How to thaw frozen egg whites

Take out of the freezer and place in the fridge for up to 24 hours, depending on volume. Use within two days.

Our best egg recipes

• Basic scrambled eggs
• Air fryer ‘boiled’ eggs
• The best fried rice omelette

Originally published as Can you freeze eggs?