Egg Boiling Calculator
Skip guesswork—dial in egg doneness with precise timing for your kitchen setup and altitude.
Cook eggs in a single layer for even results.
Boiling water is cooler at higher elevations—time increases automatically.
Active cook time
7.5 min
Jammy (custardy yolk)
Chill time
5.0 min
Stops residual cooking
Total timeline
12.5 min
Size adj +0.0 · Alt adj +0.0
Boiling checklist
- Use enough water to cover eggs by 1 inch. Stir gently in the first minute for centered yolks.
- Shock in an ice bath to peel easily and lock in the chosen doneness.
- Store peeled eggs up to 3 days refrigerated; unpeeled up to 7 days.
How to Use This Calculator
Set egg size and doneness
The calculator applies size-specific adjustments to the base cook time you choose.
Choose starting method
Hot-start eggs cook faster and peel easier; cold-start eggs reduce cracking but require extra minutes.
Account for altitude & chilling
Enter your elevation and desired ice bath duration to nail final texture every time.
Formula
Cook time = Base minutes + size adj + method adj + altitude adj
Altitude adj = floor(Altitude ÷ 300 m) × 0.3 min
Example: Large eggs, jammy, hot start at 1,500 m → Base 7.5 + 0 + 0 + (5 × 0.3) = 9.0 min.
Tip: For fridge-cold eggs, add 0.3 min; for room-temperature eggs, leave as-is.
Full Description
Perfect eggs rely on consistent timing, water temperature, and cooling. This calculator factors in egg size, desired doneness, start method, altitude, and chilling time, ensuring repeatable results whether you want runny yolks for ramen or firm yolks for salads.
Use it in home kitchens, cafés, or meal prep routines. Keep notes on your stovetop and cookware—once dialed in, you can replicate the same texture for every batch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I prick eggs before boiling?
Piercing the wide end helps release air but isn’t required. It can reduce cracking for older eggs.
Why do my eggs have green rings?
That’s sulfur reacting from overcooking. Reduce cook time or chill faster to prevent the discoloration.
Can I steam instead of boil?
Yes—steaming times are similar to hot-start boiling. Use the same timing and place eggs in an inch of boiling water with a lid.
How long can boiled eggs sit out?
Keep at room temperature no longer than 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F / 32°C). Refrigerate promptly.