To achieve success with many baking recipes, it’s crucial to use eggs at room temperature. Fortunately, there are simple methods to warm them up quickly. So, when you feel inspired to bake on a whim, you’ll be prepared.
What Does “Room Temperature” Mean?
Room temperature isn’t a fixed number. Different sources suggest it ranges from 68 to 74 degrees F (20 to 23 degrees C).
However, using a thermometer isn’t necessary. For eggs, it’s simple: they are considered room temperature when their shells are no longer cool to the touch.
How Long Does It Take for Eggs to Reach Room Temperature?
If you’re going the traditional route and leaving them on the counter, the time required depends on your fridge’s cold setting and your kitchen’s ambient temperature.
Generally, placing eggs on a towel or in a container on the counter will take about 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Eggs left in the carton might take longer. It’s important to note that exceeding 2 hours is beyond the USDA’s recommended duration for keeping eggs unrefrigerated.
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How To Quickly Bring Eggs to Room Temperature
Fill a bowl with warm, not hot, tap water (otherwise, you risk partially cooking the eggs in their shells; the water should feel warm to the touch). Gently place your eggs in the bowl and let them sit for 5-10 minutes. Once the eggs no longer feel cool, they’re ready to use. For an even faster process, you can leave the bowl under a stream of gently running warm water.
Need to learn how to bring butter to room temperature quickly? We have guidance on that too!
