What measurement is 1 egg white in volume and weight?

January 2, 2026 •

2 min read

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a large egg white typically measures around 30 grams. For most home cooks and bakers, the question of what measurement is 1 egg white is a frequent and important one, as recipes often require precision for the best results. Whether you're making a meringue, a cocktail, or a healthy breakfast, knowing the standard volume and weight of a single egg white is crucial for successful recipe execution.

Quick Summary

This guide provides comprehensive measurements for a single egg white, covering both standard volume (tablespoons, cups) and weight (grams, ounces) based on different egg sizes. It explains why precision is key in baking and offers practical tips for accurate separation and measurement, along with useful substitution equivalents.

Key Points

Standard Measurement: A single large egg white is typically 2 tablespoons (30 mL) in volume and 30 grams (1 ounce) in weight.
Weighing is Most Accurate: For precision baking, especially for meringues or soufflés, weighing the egg white with a digital scale is more reliable than measuring by volume.
Size Varies by Egg Size: Measurements change with egg size; for example, an extra-large egg white yields more than a large one.
Aquafaba as a Substitute: For a vegan alternative, 2 tablespoons of aquafaba can substitute for one egg white.
Measure Separately to Avoid Contamination: Always crack and separate the egg white into a small bowl first to prevent accidental yolk spillage from spoiling your recipe.

Standard Measurements of One Egg White

For a large chicken egg, the industry standard for the egg white is approximately 2 tablespoons in volume and 30 grams (or about 1 ounce) in weight. These figures are generally reliable for most recipes calling for '1 large egg white.' However, egg sizes vary, impacting the white's volume and weight.

Why Egg Size Matters for Measurements

Egg size classifications (small to jumbo) are based on the minimum weight per dozen. Larger eggs contain more white. While the 2 tablespoon/30 gram rule for a large egg suffices for many dishes, precise recipes like meringues benefit from weighing egg whites with a digital scale for consistent results.

The Importance of Weighing for Accuracy

Volume measurements can be inconsistent, but weight is a universal, precise measure. A kitchen scale ensures accuracy, removing guesswork related to egg size variation and guaranteeing repeatable results.

Practical Tips for Measuring Egg Whites

Use a digital kitchen scale: Weigh egg whites for critical recipes; a large white is about 30 grams.
Separate into a small bowl first: Prevent yolk contamination by separating the egg before adding it to your recipe.
Pour from the shell halves: This classic method helps separate whites from yolks.
Consider a separator tool: These tools simplify separating multiple egg whites.
Save leftover egg whites: Store extras in the fridge or freezer for later use.

Comparison of Common Egg White Measurements


Egg Size	Volume (approx.)	Weight (approx.)
Large Egg White	2 tablespoons (30 mL)	30 grams (1 oz)
Extra-Large Egg White	2.5 tablespoons (37.5 mL)	35-40 grams (1.2-1.4 oz)
Medium Egg White	1.5 tablespoons (22.5 mL)	25 grams (0.9 oz)
1/2 Cup Egg White	4-5 Large Egg Whites	120 grams (4 oz)
1 Cup Egg White	8-10 Large Egg Whites	240 grams (8 oz)

Equivalents for Egg White Substitutions

Several alternatives exist if you need an egg white substitute:

Aquafaba: Use 2 tablespoons of chickpea brine to replace one large egg white, especially for meringues.
Meringue Powder: Combine 1 tablespoon of meringue powder with 2 tablespoons of water.
Flaxseed Meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for a binding 'flax egg' (less suitable for aeration).
Commercial Egg Replacer: Follow package instructions for products like Bob's Red Mill.

Understanding the Roles of Egg White

Egg whites are vital in cooking and baking due to their roles in leavening, binding, adding moisture, and clarifying liquids. Precise measurement is essential for successful outcomes in these functions.

Conclusion

Knowing what measurement is 1 egg white is a fundamental skill. While 2 tablespoons or 30 grams is a common guideline for a large egg, variations based on egg size make weighing the most accurate method for delicate recipes. Utilizing a kitchen scale and understanding substitution options ensures consistent results in various culinary applications.

Authority Link

For more in-depth information on egg conversions and measurements, the American Egg Board is a reliable resource: https://www.incredibleegg.org/egg-facts/egg-sizes-and-how-to-measure/

Frequently Asked Questions

For a large egg, 1 egg white is approximately 2 tablespoons.

One large egg white weighs about 30 grams, which is equivalent to approximately 1 ounce.

Yes, the size of the egg directly affects the amount of white. Recipes generally assume a large egg unless otherwise specified, so a jumbo egg will have more white, and a medium egg will have less.

For consistent and precise results, especially in baking, measuring by weight (grams) is more accurate than measuring by volume (tablespoons), as it eliminates variations caused by egg size.

Aquafaba (chickpea brine) is an excellent substitute for whipping, using 2 tablespoons for every 1 large egg white. Meringue powder is another effective option.

Yes, liquid egg whites from a carton are a reliable substitute. Simply check the package for the volume conversion; typically, 2 tablespoons of liquid egg white equals one large egg white.

You can use the shell-half method, or crack the egg into your hand and let the white run through your fingers while holding the yolk in your palm.

For a large egg, one egg white measures approximately 30 milliliters (mL).