Freezing Chicken Eggs

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Are you drowning in eggs, and does the thought of tossing them give you cold sweats? No worries, this option might be the answer. Freezing chicken eggs from the coop is a great option and allows you to enjoy them year-round.

Raising chickens is fun and a great family project to enjoy. From baby chicks to meals that come to life with dark yolks that taste amazing, you’ll love your backyard coop.

There was a time when our flock was over 25 hens and two roosters. Each day, I would gather over a dozen eggs, and most days, there were two dozen to collect.

That is a lot of eggs. Even with a family of 4 teenage boys, there was no way we could use them all up.

We did sell quite a few to the locals, even supplying a small restaurant for a summer, but that still left us with overstock. You can only eat so many egg salad sandwiches before you need a break.

How Long Will Eggs From the Coop Last?

Eggs from the coop can last 2-3 months in your fridge, provided they are clean and haven’t been washed. The bloom or cuticle, a protective layer on the eggshell, protects it from bacteria, allowing them to last longer.

Once you wash them, this layer is removed, and the egg becomes susceptible to spoiling. If you want longer storage times, only wash soiled or dirty eggs.

Get all our tips on How to Wash Eggs From the Coop.

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When Does an Egg Need to Be Tossed?

If you are unsure about an egg’s freshness, here are a few simple ways to test it:

• The Shake Test: Hold the egg up to your ear and shake it gently. If you hear sloshing, it has likely gone bad.
• The Smell Test: Crack open the egg and give it a sniff. If there is a foul odor, discard it immediately.
• The Float Test: Place the egg in a bowl of water. If it sinks to the bottom and lays on its side, it is fresh. If it stands upright or floats, it is no longer good.

Remember, when in doubt, throw it out! It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to consuming eggs that may have gone bad.

Freezing Chickens Eggs for Storage

If you find yourself with an excess of chicken eggs, freezing them is a great way to preserve them for later use. Don’t just freeze any egg; be sure to inspect them quickly and only preserve your best.

Tools Needed:

• Freezer-safe containers , ice cube trays, or muffin tin
• Glass pitcher for mixing and pouring
• Fork or whisk
• Freezer bags and marker

Freezing Directions:

There are a couple of ways you can freeze eggs. Try them both and see which you prefer.

Option #1. Freezing Whole Cracked Eggs

1. Crack your eggs into a cup and remove any shells.
2. If using an ice cube tray, put one cracked egg into each section.
3. Freeze as is or sprinkle with a little salt on top of each egg.
4. Place the tray in the freezer and allow the eggs to freeze solid.
5. Once frozen, pop out the eggs out of the tray and place them in your labeled container or bag.
6. Return the eggs to the freezer and use within a year.

Option #2. Freezing Whisked Eggs

1. Break the eggs into a bowl and lightly beat them.
2. Pour the beaten eggs into your freezing or ice cube tray. Leave a little room at the top of each section for expansion.
3. Place the tray in the freezer and allow the eggs to freeze solid.
4. Once frozen, pop out the eggs and place them in your labeled container or bag.
5. Return the eggs to the freezer and use within a year.

Thawing Eggs:

• Allow them to thaw slowly in the refrigerator for best results.
• If you are in a rush, place the eggs in a bowl of cold water and change the water every 15 minutes until they are thawed.
• Do not thaw frozen eggs at room temperature, as it can promote bacterial growth.
• Once thawed, use immediately; do not refreeze.

How to Use:

Once eggs are thawed, use them just as you would fresh eggs in your favorite recipes. They can be added to scrambled eggs, baking recipes, or used for omelets. You may notice a slight difference in texture and color, but the taste should not be affected.

Creative Ways to Use Up Extra Eggs

If you find yourself with an abundance of eggs from your coop, here are some creative ways to use them up instead of letting them go to waste:

• Make omelets for Dinner: We love dinner breakfasts and will eat omelets one day a week. Omelets not only uses up quite a few eggs, but it is a great way to use up any vegetables in the fridge.
• French Toast: One of my favorite quick-make breakfasts is French toast. It is easy, takes minutes to prepare, and uses up quite a few eggs to boot.
• Bake a Quiche: A quiche is a versatile dish and is perfect for using up extra eggs. You can throw in any vegetables or meats you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out your fridge.
• Make Custard: Custard is another tasty treat that uses multiple eggs at once. You can serve it as dessert or breakfast with some fresh fruit on top.
• Whip Up Some Homemade Mayo: Did you know that mayonnaise is made primarily with eggs? Making your own mayo at home not only saves money but also ensures you are using fresh, safe eggs in the process.
• And if all else fails, don’t forget you can scramble up extra eggs and feed them back to your chickens. This is a great way to create a protein-rich treat for your feathered friends while also making use of any excess eggs.

How long will frozen eggs last?

Frozen eggs taste the best if used within three months of freezing, but they are still safe to eat after that. Keep in mind that the longer they have been frozen, the more their texture and taste may be affected.

It is safe to use frozen eggs for up to one year. Be sure to label your bags clearly with the date so there is no doubt of the time.

Freezing chicken eggs is just another reason why having a backyard coop is so beneficial. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your chicken’s egg-laying abilities without fretting over too much.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to using up extra eggs, so get creative and have fun in the kitchen.

More Chicken Coop Guides to Read:

• Introducing New Chickens to Your Flock
• Inside Chicken Coop Layout
• Chicken Coop Resources Page