How to Separate Eggs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Read these easy tips and instructions for success every time you separate eggs, then watch our how-to video.
![Separating Eggs](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/1/HT_Seperate-Eggs-Beauty2_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371597314854.jpeg)
Many recipes call for separated eggs. Whether you're using the whites or yolks, here are two good food-safe ways to get the job done.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-04_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595629188.jpeg)
Tip: Safety First
Always be sure to wash your hands before and after working with eggs.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-03_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595628872.jpeg)
First Method: Egg Separator
You can purchase an egg separator from any housewares store.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-06_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595628422.jpeg)
How to Use an Egg Separator
Place the egg separator over a bowl and crack an egg into it. Note: This is safer than using a shell to separate.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-08_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595433475.jpeg)
Instant Separation
Watch the white fall down and the yolk stay up.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-09_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595420878.jpeg)
Tip for Extras
Store leftover whites or yolks separately in the refrigerator or freezer.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-10_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595430415.jpeg)
Second Method: Spoon
This is the other food-safe way to separate an egg.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-12_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595410284.jpeg)
Scoop
Crack an egg into a bowl and scoop out the yolk with a spoon.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-13_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595401874.jpeg)
Steady as She Goes
Use the side of the bowl to help balance...
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/0/HT_Seperate-Eggs-14_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.436.suffix/1371595405397.jpeg)
... the yolk on the spoon.
![](http://food.fnr.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/food/fullset/2011/4/19/1/HT_Seperate-Eggs-Beauty3_s3x4.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.581.775.suffix/1371597951615.jpeg)
Crack the Code
Now you're ready to whip, scramble, bake and make puddings. So if it's egg whites or yolks you're after, you've learned two ways to accomplish a smooth, food-safe separation. Watch our how-to video for more.