The Pete & Gerry’s Guide to Egg Wash: Whole Egg vs. Yolk vs. White
If you’ve ever pulled a tray of baked goodies out of the oven and wondered why they didn’t look quite as shiny or golden as your favorite bakery’s goodies, the answer is probably simple: egg wash.
A quick brush of beaten egg before baking can change everything from color to shine to texture. To show the difference clearly, we tested four versions on homemade biscuits: whole egg, yolk, white, and no wash at all. Same dough. Same oven. Four different finishes. A real biscuit beauty pageant.
Each egg wash brings gives a different look, and with high-quality Pete & Gerry’s Organic Pasture-Raised Eggs, you get richer color and reliable results every time.
Below, we break it down so you know exactly which egg wash to use the next time the baking bug bites.
What Is Egg Wash and Why Use It?
Egg wash is simply beaten egg brushed onto dough before baking. Bakers use it to:
- Create golden color
- Add shine
- Improve browning
- Create a firmer or softer crust
- Help toppings stick
Because pasture-raised eggs naturally have vibrant yolks and sturdy whites, they give you better control over your final bake.
Our Biscuit Egg Wash Test
We baked biscuits side by side - same dough, same oven - changing only the egg wash that we brushed on top.
Whole Egg Wash
Results: Classic golden color, moderate shine, even browning.
Best for: Everyday biscuits, pie crusts, rolls. A reliable, bakery-style finish with consistent shine, warm color, and sturdy but tender surface.
Egg Yolk Wash
Results: Deepest, most dramatic color, soft subtle shine, rich appearance.
Best for: Pies, pastries, holiday bakes, croissants. The yolk’s natural pigment takes center stage.
Egg White Wash
Results: Lighter color, high shine, slightly crisper surface.
Best for: Savory pastries, seeded or sprinkled tops, shine without heavy browning.
No Egg Wash
Results: Pale, matte, soft surface.
Best for: Rustic or drop biscuits or low-maintenance bakes.
How to Make Egg Wash
- Whole egg: 1 beaten egg; add water for easy brushing
- Yolk only: 1 egg yolk; add milk for richer shine
- White only: 1 egg white; add water for lighter color
Brush lightly, avoid pooling, and apply just before baking. If using just a yolk or white, save the other for a separate purpose. Learn more about freezing egg yolks and whites here: How to Freeze Eggs
Why Quality Eggs Matter
Pasture-raised hens produce richer yolks and more stable whites, which means:
- Better browning
- More even shine
- Consistent, predictable baking results
Pete & Gerry’s is known for eggs from family farms committed to Certified Humane standards.
Recipes That Use Egg Wash
- Pie crusts
- Dinner rolls
- Puff pastry
- Scones
- Biscuits
Final Takeaway
A simple egg wash can completely transform your bake. Whether you want deep golden color, glossy shine, or a rustic finish, there’s an egg wash for the job.
Ready to test your own? Find Pete & Gerry’s Organic Pasture-Raised Eggs near you and start brushing.
