Last Updated on July 16, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
If you’re wondering what to do with excess eggs, you’re not alone. Many people who enjoy raising backyard chickens often find themselves with more eggs than they can handle. There are several culinary options that help you use these eggs creatively, ensuring none of your fresh, homegrown produce goes to waste.
Here, we’ll explore a variety of ways to use up those extra eggs, from make-and-freeze breakfasts to delicious non-breakfast recipes.
Make-And-Freeze Breakfasts
One excellent way to manage an egg surplus is by preparing make-and-freeze breakfasts. These options not only help you use up your eggs but also save time on busy mornings. You’ll find that having ready-to-eat breakfasts can make your morning smoother and less stressful.
Here are a few freezable breakfast ideas to get you started:
Breakfast Burritos
Breakfast burritos are a versatile and easy-to-make option. Scramble your excess eggs with some diced vegetables, cooked sausage or bacon, and shredded cheese. Wrap the mixture in tortillas and freeze them individually. You can store them in the freezer by individually wrapping them in parchment paper or cling wrap and then placing them in a freezable container like tupperware or gallon freezer bags.
When you’re ready for breakfast, simply remove them from the plastic and heat them in the microwave or oven for a quick, delicious meal.
Breakfast Sandwiches
Breakfast sandwiches are another fantastic way to use up eggs. Cook your eggs in a circular mold to fit on an English muffin, then add cheese and a slice of ham or sausage. Wrap each sandwich in foil and freeze. To reheat, just pop one in the microwave or oven, and you’ve got a hot, tasty breakfast in minutes.
French Toast
French toast is a breakfast classic that can be easily frozen for later use. Whisk together your eggs with milk, cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. Dip slices of bread into the mixture, cook them on a griddle until golden brown, and let them cool. Freeze the slices on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, toast or bake them until hot and crispy.
Non-Breakfast Recipes That Use a Ton of Eggs
Breakfasts aren’t the only meals that can benefit from your egg surplus. There are plenty of non-breakfast recipes that require a lot of eggs, allowing you to diversify your menu and make the most of your fresh eggs. Here are some delicious options.
Homemade Egg Noodles
Homemade egg noodles are a wonderful way to use up extra eggs. Combine eggs with flour and a pinch of salt to create a dough. Roll out the dough and cut it into noodles. These can be cooked fresh or dehydrated for later use. They’re perfect for soups, casseroles, or simply tossed with butter and herbs.
Hollandaise Sauce
Hollandaise sauce is a rich and creamy addition to many dishes, particularly brunch favorites like Eggs Benedict. To make it, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and melted butter over low heat until thickened. This decadent sauce will elevate any meal, making it a worthy use of your extra eggs.
Homemade Caesar Dressing
For those who love homemade salad dressings, a homemade Caesar dressing is a great way to use up eggs. Blend egg yolks with garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, anchovies, and olive oil to create a creamy, flavorful dressing that’s perfect for Caesar salads.
Frozen Custard
Frozen custard is a delicious treat that uses plenty of eggs. This dessert is richer than regular ice cream because of the added egg yolks. Combine eggs, sugar, cream, and vanilla to make a custard base, then churn it in an ice cream maker for a creamy, smooth frozen delight.
Pound Cake or Sponge Cake
Both pound cake and sponge cake are excellent for using up eggs. Pound cake typically requires a significant number of eggs to achieve its dense, moist texture. Sponge cake, on the other hand, relies on beaten eggs for its light and airy consistency. Both cakes are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat.
Meringues (or Meringue Pie)
Meringues are a sweet and airy treat made primarily from egg whites and sugar. Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gradually add sugar. These can be baked into crisp meringue cookies or used to top pies like lemon meringue.
Macaroons
Macaroons are chewy coconut cookies that require a good number of egg whites. These delightful treats are perfect for anyone who loves coconut and are relatively simple to make.
Macarons
Macarons, the French confection, are another excellent option for using up egg whites. These delicate cookies, made with almond flour, sugar, and egg whites, are sandwiched together with various fillings, creating a delightful and sophisticated treat.
Homemade Granola
Egg whites can be used to make homemade granola clusters. Whisk them until frothy, then mix them with oats, nuts, seeds, and a sweetener of your choice. Bake the mixture until golden brown and enjoy a crunchy, protein-packed snack or breakfast topping.
Flan
Flan is a creamy, caramel-topped dessert that uses a significant number of eggs. The custard base, made from eggs, sugar, and milk, is baked until set and then chilled. The result is a smooth and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.
Can You Preserve Fresh Chicken Eggs?
Preserving fresh chicken eggs can extend their shelf life and ensure you have eggs available even when your hens slow down production. There are several methods to preserve eggs, including:
- Freezing: Crack the eggs into a bowl, beat them lightly, and pour the mixture into ice cube trays or freezer bags. You can also freeze egg whites and yolks separately if needed.
- Water Glassing: This old-fashioned method involves storing fresh, unwashed eggs in a solution of water and pickling lime. Eggs preserved this way can last up to a year.
- Pickling: Hard-boil the eggs, peel them, and then submerge them in a vinegar-based brine. Pickled eggs are a tasty snack and can be stored for several months.
- Dehydrating: Beat the eggs and then dry them in a food dehydrator. Once dry, grind them into a powder. Egg powder can be reconstituted with water and used in various recipes.
Ready to Use Up Those Lovely Eggs?
Knowing what to do with excess eggs can transform a potential problem into an opportunity for culinary creativity. Whether you’re making and freezing breakfasts, exploring non-breakfast recipes, or preserving your eggs for future use, there are countless ways to make the most of your hens’ surplus.
Enjoy the process of cooking from scratch and the satisfaction that comes from making the most of your backyard bounty.