How long do you boil a soft boiled egg?

For large eggs started from boiling water, 6 minutes is usually very runny, 7 minutes is softly set, and 8 minutes is jammy. Egg size, starting temperature, altitude, and pan strength can change the result slightly.

What is the best timer for jammy eggs?

A jammy yolk is usually around 8 minutes for large eggs placed into already-boiling water, then cooled quickly in an ice bath.

Should I start eggs in cold water or boiling water?

This timer is designed for eggs lowered into boiling water. If you start in cold water, timing can vary more because every stove heats at a different speed.

Does this egg timer make sound?

Yes. The timer can play gentle sound cues near the end and when the eggs are ready. You can turn sound off before starting.

Egg countdown presets

Soft Boiled Egg Timer

Start a clear egg timer for runny yolks, jammy eggs, ramen eggs, medium boiled eggs, and hard boiled eggs. Pick a preset, lower large eggs into boiling water, and cool them when the timer ends.

Custom time

Ready to boil?

Choose the yolk you want, then press start when the eggs go into boiling water.

Lower eggs gently into boiling water.

Target: Runny yolk, just-set white

How to use this egg timer

Bring water to a steady boil.
Choose the yolk texture you want.
Lower large eggs into the water and press start.
Move eggs to cold water or an ice bath when the timer ends.

Boiled egg timing guide

6 to 6½ minutes: soft boiled with a runny yolk.
7 minutes: soft center with a slightly thicker yolk.
8 minutes: jammy yolk for toast, bowls, or ramen.
10 to 12 minutes: firm to hard boiled eggs.

For more consistent eggs

Use eggs that are close to the same size, avoid crowding the pot, and cool them quickly after boiling. If your eggs come out too soft, add 30 to 60 seconds next time. If the yolk is chalky, shorten the timer.

Ramen egg and jammy egg timing

For ramen-style eggs, start with the 8 minute jammy preset, cool the eggs, peel them, and marinate after cooking. For a looser center, try 7 minutes. For a firmer snack egg, try 9 minutes.

Quick egg presets

6:30Runny breakfast egg

8:00Jammy yolk

10:00Firm but tender

12:00Hard boiled

Soft boiled egg timer FAQ

How long should I set a timer for soft boiled eggs?

For large eggs lowered into boiling water, start with 6 to 7 minutes for soft boiled eggs. Use 6:30 for a runnier yolk and 7 minutes for a slightly thicker center.

How long is a jammy egg timer?

Eight minutes is a good starting point for jammy eggs. Cool the eggs quickly after boiling so the yolk stops cooking.

Do cold eggs need more time?

Cold eggs from the refrigerator may need a little more time than room-temperature eggs. If your first batch is too soft, add 30 seconds on the next batch.

Why does altitude change boiled egg timing?

Water boils at a lower temperature at higher altitude, so eggs can take longer to set. Add time in small steps until the yolk texture matches what you like.

Can I use this as a hard boiled egg timer?

Yes. Use the 10 minute preset for a firm egg or the 12 minute preset for a classic hard boiled egg.