Boiled Egg Timer

The perfect boiled egg

Boiling times depend on egg size, starting temperature and your preferred doneness. This calculator assumes you add the egg to already-boiling water.

Doneness guide

• Soft (runny): Whites just set, yolk completely liquid — perfect for dippy soldiers
• Medium (jammy): Whites firm, yolk jammy and molten in the centre — great for ramen and salads
• Hard (fully set): Both white and yolk fully cooked — ideal for egg sandwiches and picnics

Tips for perfect results every time

• Lower eggs gently into boiling water with a slotted spoon
• Plunge into ice water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process
• Older eggs peel more easily than very fresh eggs
• Add a pinch of salt or splash of vinegar to the water to help with peeling