Whether you’re after soft, jammy, or hard-boiled, here’s how to nail it ⬇️
🥚 Method 1: Start Cold (Gentle & Forgiving)
- Place eggs in a pot in a single layer.
- Cover with cold water (about 1 inch above the eggs).
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, turn off the heat, cover, and let sit:
• 6 min → soft-boiled (runny yolk)
• 8–9 min → jammy center
• 10–12 min → fully hard-boiled - Transfer to an ice bath for 5+ minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier.
Why use this method?
- Reduces cracking (gentler heat transition)
- Helps center the yolk
- Great for deviled eggs or when you want a smooth finish
🥚Method 2 : Start Hot (Precise & Peel-Friendly)
- Bring a pot of water to a full boil.
- Gently lower in the eggs using a spoon or strainer.
- Boil uncovered:
• 6 min → soft
• 8–9 min → jammy
• 10–12 min → hard - Ice bath immediately after.
Why use this method?
- More consistent timing
- Often easier to peel (hot water helps separate the membrane)
- Faster overall
Bonus Tips
- Older eggs peel better than fresh ones.
- Crack slightly before chilling for ultra-easy peeling.
- Steam instead of boil if you’re doing large batches, more consistent results.

