Step 1

Bring enough water to cover eggs to a boil in a pot.

Step 2

Carefully lower the eggs into the boiling water using a spoon, ladle, or tongs. Be sure to do this gently to avoid cracking the eggs.

Step 3

Once the eggs are in the water, start your timer. For a soft boiled egg with a runny yolk, you'll want to cook the eggs for about 6 minutes. If you prefer a yolk that is still soft but not runny, aim for about 7 to 8 minutes.

Step 4

Once the timer goes off, quickly use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the eggs from the boiling water.

Step 5

Immediately transfer the eggs to a bowl of ice water. The ice water will stop the cooking process and cool the eggs down for handling and peeling.

Step 6

Let the eggs sit a few minutes before you peel them.