If you’re a fan of baking, you’ve probably come across the term “egg wash” at some point in your recipe. Whether you’re making a pie crust, bread, or pastry, an egg wash can add a beautiful golden color and shine to your baked goods. But what exactly is an egg wash, and how do you do it? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to do an egg wash.
What is an Egg Wash?
An egg wash is a mixture of beaten egg and liquid (usually water or milk) that is brushed onto the surface of pastries, breads, and other baked goods before they go into the oven. The egg wash helps to give the baked goods a shiny, golden brown appearance, and can also help toppings like seeds or sugar to stick to the surface.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
- A small bowl
- A whisk or fork
- A pastry brush
Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started:
Step 1: Crack the Egg
Start by cracking the egg into a small bowl.
Step 2: Add the Liquid
Add one tablespoon of water or milk to the bowl with the egg.
Step 3: Whisk the Mixture
Use a whisk or fork to beat the egg and liquid together until they are well combined.
Step 4: Brush the Egg Wash onto Your Baked Goods
Use a pastry brush to apply the egg wash to the surface of your baked goods. Be sure to brush evenly and cover the entire surface.
Step 5: Add Toppings (Optional)
If you’re using toppings like seeds or sugar, sprinkle them onto the surface of your baked goods after you’ve applied the egg wash.
Step 6: Bake as Directed in Your Recipe
Once you’ve applied the egg wash (and any toppings), bake your goods as directed in your recipe. The egg wash will help to give them a beautiful golden brown color and shine.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your egg wash:
- For a richer color and flavor, use an egg yolk instead of a whole egg.
- If you want a shiny surface but don’t want to add color, use a wash made from egg whites instead of whole eggs.
- For a thicker and more glossy egg wash, add a pinch of sugar to the mixture.
- If you’re using an egg wash on a pie crust, be sure to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to do an egg wash, you can add a beautiful golden shine to all of your baked goods. Whether you’re making a pie crust, bread, or pastry, an egg wash is a simple but effective technique that can take your baking to the next level. With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can achieve professional-looking results in no time.