The typical time to make hard boiled eggs is to let eggs sit in hot boiling water for 9 to 12 minutes, depending on the desired yolk firmness. For fully hard boiled eggs with firm yolks, 10 to 12 minutes is standard. After boiling, eggs should be moved to an ice bath to stop cooking and make peeling easier. Here are detailed timings and steps:
- Bring eggs in water to a rolling boil.
- Turn off heat, cover the pot, and let eggs sit in hot water 9-12 minutes.
- 9-10 minutes produces a vibrant, creamy yolk.
- 12 minutes yields a paler, fully firm yolk.
- Transfer eggs immediately to ice water for at least 10-15 minutes to stop cooking and aid peeling.
- Peel after cooling.
Alternatively, boiling eggs on medium heat for 7-8 minutes after water starts boiling also gives a perfect hard boiled egg with firm yolks. Shorter times (6-8 minutes) result in eggs with soft or jammy yolks, while longer times (above 12 minutes) produce fully hard cooked eggs but risk a dry texture or greenish yolk ring. For easiest peeling, use eggs about a week old rather than fresh and always cool them thoroughly in ice water after cooking.