To make a classic hard boiled egg, the typical cooking time is about 10 minutes once the water is boiling
. Here are some common methods and timings:
- Boiling method: Lower eggs into boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes for a fully hard boiled egg with a creamy yolk
. Some recommend 11 minutes for a firm yolk
- Off-heat method: Bring eggs and water to a rolling boil, then cover and turn off the heat. Let eggs sit in the hot water for 9 to 12 minutes depending on yolk firmness preference (10 minutes for creamy yolks, 12 for fully firm)
- After cooking, immediately transfer eggs to an ice water bath for at least 10-15 minutes to stop cooking and make peeling easier
In summary, it takes about 10 to 12 minutes of cooking time in boiling or hot water to make hard boiled eggs, plus additional time in an ice bath to cool and stop cooking
. The exact time can vary slightly depending on egg size, altitude, and personal preference for yolk texture.