Soft boiled eggs generally take between 6 and 8 minutes to cook, depending on the desired yolk consistency and egg size.
- For a soft boiled egg with fully set whites and a liquid yolk, 6 minutes is typical when starting with large, cold eggs straight from the refrigerator
- If you prefer a slightly runnier yolk with whites not fully set, 3 to 5 minutes can be enough
- Cooking for about 7 minutes yields a jammy yolk with outer edges set, while 8 minutes results in a half-set yolk
- Some sources recommend 6 to 7 minutes for soft boiled eggs, adjusting slightly based on preference and egg size
- A common approach is to boil water, gently lower cold eggs into it, and cook for 6 to 7 minutes, then immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking
In summary, for classic soft boiled eggs with tender whites and runny yolks, aim for about 6 to 7 minutes of boiling time, adjusting slightly based on your preference and egg size. Cooling the eggs in ice water afterward helps achieve perfect texture and easier peeling.
