Learn how to dye Easter eggs like a pro! Achieving the perfect hue is easy when you follow our simple step-by-step instructions. Get a quick overview of how to hard boil the perfect egg, create unique shades with McCormick Food Coloring, and discover cool Easter egg designs.
Step 1. How to Hard Boil Eggs for Easter Eggs
• Remove eggs from the refrigerator a few minutes before game time and let them warm to room temperature. This will prevent them from cracking.
• Fill your pot with just the right amount of water—enough to fully cover the top of your egg.
• Gently drop your eggs into a pot of water that is already boiling.
• Cook it to your preference: 4 minutes will give you a soft-boiled egg, 8 minutes will be when the yolk has just about set, and 14 minutes you'll have a crumbly hard-boiled yolk.
• Move your eggs from the boiling water directly into an ice water bath. This will help the shells separate cleanly from the eggs when peeling. Find more details on how to hard boil eggs here.
These hard boiled eggs are perfect for dying Easter eggs, but they also make a wonderful base for popular Easter recipes like classic deviled eggs.
Step 2. Learn How to Dye Easter Eggs Using Water, Vinegar, and Food Color
Photo Credit: Emily Caruso
Mix ½ cup boiling water, 1 teaspoon white vinegar and food color in a bowl to achieve the desired colors for your egg dye. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the number of drops to achieve the color you’re looking for.
Step 3. Dye and Design Easter Eggs
Photo Credit: Emily Caruso
Dip eggs in dye using a slotted spoon, wire egg holder or tongs. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to soak up the color.
Try These Easter Egg Designs
Inspired to work on your own Easter egg designs? Check out some of our Easter egg dying recipes below.
Full Marbleized Easter Eggs Recipe
Full Painted Easter Eggs Recipe
Full Striped Easter Eggs Recipe
Step 4. Let the Dyed Easter Eggs Dry
Photo Credit: Emily Caruso
Remove eggs from dye and allow to dry. Place on a cooling rack with paper towels underneath, or create a makeshift stand by cutting out sections of a paper towel tube.
