They’re not just for breakfast anymore. Eggs yolks have remarkable properties that go beyond the traditional egg on a plate. They can be used in a variety of ways in recipes to effect unique characteristics from coagulating properties to give structure to custards and puddings, to lecithin as a binder in sauces.
Egg yolks are also high in lipids, peptides and antioxidants lending themselves to cosmetic and medicinal uses. They are a nutritional powerhouse high in vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, D, E, K, B-complex plus iron, phosphorous, selenium, choline and depending on the hen, omega-3 fatty acids.
As an ingredient in any recipe, they bring that nutrition to the party in addition to those unique properties that enhance the texture and integrity of everything from cakes to pies and most anything baked. Here are some of the unique and surprising uses you may not have considered for something as simple as an egg yolk.
Egg Yolks 101
There are a couple of techniques that can be used to separate an egg yolk from the egg white. You can either carefully transfer the yolk back and forth between the two halves of a cracked egg or use a yolk separator that allows the egg white to drain while a slotted cup in the center holds the yolk. You’re then ready to use your yolks. The separation is important because the egg white can have unexpected effects on recipes and some of the applications we’re about to cover.
A Natural Leather Polish
Surprising but it works. Combine the yolk with 2 tablespoons of vinegar and two tablespoons of water and blend well with a fork. Use a shoe buffing rag to apply the yolk mixture and smear over the leather and then buff with a dry rag. It works great on leather shoes, leather belts, purses and leather satchels.
Natural Glue for Paper and Crafts
The lecithin and protein in egg yolks can act as a mild adhesive. Mix one yolk with a few drops of water and use it to glue paper, cardboard, or even delicate craft materials. Once dried, it creates a surprisingly strong bond for lightweight projects.
➡️ How to Make and Use Primitive Glue
DIY Fertilizer Booster
Egg yolks are nutrient-rich and can be diluted with water to make a liquid plant booster. A small amount added to compost tea or poured directly at the base of non-edible plants provides phosphorous, nitrogen, and lipids that promote healthy foliage and blooms.
Hair and Scalp Remedy
Beyond conditioner, a yolk can be massaged into a dry scalp to help soothe irritation. The fats and vitamins absorb directly, leaving hair softer and reducing flakiness when washed out after 20–30 minutes.
Rust Prevention for Tools
A thin coat of egg yolk can act as a short-term rust barrier on small hand tools or gardening implements. The natural oils repel moisture, especially when applied to clean, dry metal and wiped off after drying to avoid stickiness.
Candle Wax Enhancer
Egg yolk can be added in tiny amounts to homemade candles to create a smoother surface finish. The fats in yolks help reduce bubbling and small cracks in poured wax, making candles look more polished.
➡️How to Make a DIY Stress Relief Herbal Candle
Seed Coating for Planting
Egg yolks can be used as a nutrient-rich coating for small seeds before planting. Lightly brushing seeds with yolk (sometimes mixed with a bit of compost tea) can help improve germination rates and protect them from drying out. This works especially well for medicinal seeds.
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Pest Deterrent for Garden Plants
A thin yolk-water solution applied sparingly around the base of plants can deter some small pests. The idea is that the fats and proteins create a mild barrier or attract ants that chase other insects away.
Soil Microbe Activator
A small amount of yolk mixed into compost can feed beneficial microbes and speed decomposition, adding nutrients to your soil naturally.
Bird Nesting Material Enhancer
A little yolk applied to straw or fiber in artificial birdhouses can help bind loose materials together, making nests more durable for small backyard birds.
Conditioning Rope or Twine
Egg yolk can soften natural fiber ropes or twine, reducing fraying and making knots easier to tie.
Egg Yolk Ice Cube Storage
If you’re not using them immediately, yolks can be frozen in ice cube trays with a tiny pinch of salt to prevent gel formation. I first learned about salt preservation from the Amish Ways book. Honestly, I wish more people knew about it; it’s a game-changer for any homesteader.
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Each cube can later be used for any of these unconventional applications without going to waste.
Yes, You Can Freeze Them for Later
There are a few ways to store egg yolks. You can leave them in a bowl in the freezer for up to a week, but you can also freeze them. You just plop each egg yolk into a compartment of an ice cube tray, and they will keep for up to a year. To use them, plop them out of the compartment as needed and let thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Give Some of These Ideas a Try
Once you appreciate the versatility and range of uses for egg yolks you might think of eggs a whole new way.
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