The question of how many grams is 2 whole eggs is surprisingly complex, as the answer depends entirely on the size of the eggs. For casual cooking like scrambling, the difference between a medium and an extra-large egg is negligible. But in baking, where precision is paramount, knowing the exact weight of your eggs is the key to a successful outcome. This guide breaks down the standardized weight classes and offers a practical method for measuring eggs accurately for any recipe.
Egg Size Isn't Just About Appearance
Contrary to what many people assume, egg sizes like 'Medium' and 'Large' are not determined by visual size but by weight. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other regulatory bodies use specific weight requirements to grade and classify eggs. This standardization ensures consistency for consumers and commercial kitchens. Here is a breakdown of the USDA weight classes per dozen, which translates to an average individual egg weight:
- Jumbo: 30 oz (approx. 70.9 g per egg)
- Extra-Large: 27 oz (approx. 63.8 g per egg)
- Large: 24 oz (approx. 56.7 g per egg)
- Medium: 21 oz (approx. 49.6 g per egg)
- Small: 18 oz (approx. 42.5 g per egg)
Based on these figures, two eggs of different sizes can have very different total weights. For example, two medium eggs would be about 99 grams, while two jumbo eggs could be over 140 grams.
The Importance of Weighing for Recipes
For savory dishes like frittatas or omelets, substituting egg sizes is often fine. However, in baking, where the chemistry of ingredients is delicate, the water and fat content of an egg must be exact. Using an extra-large egg when a recipe calls for a large one can introduce extra liquid, resulting in a runnier batter and affecting the final product's texture and rise. Conversely, using eggs that are too small can lead to a dry, crumbly result. This is especially true for recipes that call for multiple eggs.
How to Measure Eggs Accurately with a Kitchen Scale
The most reliable method for ensuring accuracy in your recipes is to weigh your eggs using a digital kitchen scale. This simple process eliminates all guesswork. Here's how:
- Place an empty bowl on the scale and tare it to zero.
- Crack the eggs into the bowl. For two large eggs, you are aiming for approximately 114 grams. For two medium eggs, aim for around 99 grams.
- Adjust the amount as needed. If the eggs are too heavy, you can remove a small amount of the whites. If they are too light, add a splash of milk or a bit of egg from a third egg to reach the desired weight.
Factors that Influence Egg Weight
Several elements contribute to the variability in egg size and weight. Understanding these can help you better predict the weight of the eggs you purchase.
- Age of the Hen: Younger hens typically lay smaller eggs, while older hens produce larger eggs.
- Breed: The genetic makeup of the chicken breed influences the size of the eggs it lays.
- Diet and Nutrition: The quality and type of feed a hen receives can significantly impact egg size.
- Environment: Factors such as temperature and stress can affect a hen's feed intake and, in turn, the size of the eggs it lays.
Comparison Table: 2 Eggs by Size Class
To highlight the weight differences, here is a quick comparison of two eggs based on USDA standards:
| Egg Size Class | Approximate Weight of 1 Egg (g) | Approximate Weight of 2 Eggs (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Medium | 49.6 g | ~99 g |
| Large | 56.7 g | ~113 g |
| Extra-Large | 63.8 g | ~128 g |
| Jumbo | 70.9 g | ~142 g |
Conclusion
Ultimately, the weight of two whole eggs is not a static number but is highly dependent on their size classification. While two large eggs average about 114 grams, knowing the specific weight class and weighing your ingredients is the most accurate approach for recipes that require precise measurements, especially in baking. For standard cooking, any two eggs will typically do, but for best results, a kitchen scale is a baker's best friend. Mastering egg weight is a simple step that can significantly improve your cooking and baking outcomes.
For more information on the science of baking and ingredient measurements, check out America's Test Kitchen's resources.
