For large eggs, boil for about 6–13 minutes depending on how you like the yolk; shorter for soft and runny, longer for fully hard-boiled.

Quick Scoop

If your question is simply “how long do eggs boil,” here’s the fast, practical range most home cooks use for large eggs, starting in gently boiling water:

  • 6 minutes: Soft white, runny yolk.
  • 8 minutes: Fully set white, jammy/soft yolk.
  • 10 minutes: Mostly firm yolk with just a hint of creaminess.
  • 12–13 minutes: Fully hard-boiled, firm yolk, not chalky if you cool them promptly.

A simple way to remember it as a beginner is:

  1. Decide the yolk you want (runny, jammy, or hard).
  2. Start your timer the moment the water reaches a steady, gentle boil.
  3. When time’s up, move the eggs straight into cold water or an ice bath so they don’t overcook.

If your eggs are smaller, shave off a minute; if they’re extra-large or you live at high altitude, you may need a minute or two more.