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How to Boil Eggs Perfectly

Easy Home Cooking
Learn the foolproof method for boiling eggs to your desired doneness every time—soft, medium, or hard. This simple technique uses cold water, a timed boil, and an ice bath to ensure easy peeling and perfectly cooked yolks.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 14 minutes
Servings 8 eggs
Calories 70 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 large eggs cold from the fridge
  • 8 cups cold water for a 3-quart saucepan

Instructions
 

  • Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
  • Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  • Once boiling, reduce to a medium boil and set timer (see chart).
  • Prepare an ice bath. Transfer eggs to the bath when timer ends.
  • Cool completely, peel when ready to use, and store as needed.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/how-to-boil-eggs-perfectly/

Notes

  • Use older eggs for easier peeling—fresh eggs tend to cling to their shells.
  • To center the yolk, store eggs on their sides in the fridge for a day before boiling.
  • Gently crack and roll the eggs on the counter before peeling for best results.
  • This method works for any quantity—just keep eggs in a single layer and adjust water accordingly.