Why do some recipes give egg weight instead of number?

Professional and precise baking recipes often specify egg weight in grams because egg sizes vary. Giving a weight ensures consistency regardless of what size eggs you buy. This is especially important in recipes like macarons, choux pastry, and sponge cakes.

Should I weigh eggs with or without the shell?

Most recipes that specify weight mean whole eggs without the shell, unless stated otherwise. The shell accounts for roughly 10% of the total egg weight. When this calculator gives weights, it uses total egg weight including shell for counting purposes, as that is how eggs are sold.

What if I need a fraction of an egg?

This calculator rounds up to the nearest whole egg. If the exact calculation is 2.3 eggs, you will need 3 eggs. Beat the eggs together and weigh out the amount you need. Save the remainder for an egg wash or scrambled eggs.

Do egg weights include the shell?

The weights used in this calculator are total egg weights including the shell (as per UK sizing standards). The edible portion is roughly 90% of the total — so a 68g large egg contains about 61g of usable egg (white plus yolk).

Why do some recipes specify eggs by weight instead of number?

Professional bakers and pastry chefs specify eggs by weight for precision. Egg sizes vary significantly — a small egg might be 48g while a very large one is 78g. Using weight ensures the correct amount of liquid and protein every time, which is critical for recipes like macarons, choux, and genoise sponge.

BakeCalcs

Egg Quantity by Weight Calculator

Calculate how many eggs you need when a recipe specifies egg weight in grams.

Target Egg Weight

Total weight of eggs the recipe calls for

Egg Size Available

How We Calculate This

This calculator divides your target egg weight by the average weight of your chosen egg size to determine how many eggs you need. It rounds up to the nearest whole egg.

The Formula

Eggs needed = Target weight / Average weight per egg (rounded up)

Average UK Egg Weights

Small: ~48g
Medium: ~58g
Large: ~68g
Very Large: ~78g

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are based on standard ratios and conversions. Results may vary with specific ingredients, equipment, and conditions.