Jammy Eggs Timer
Written by Mustapha B. · Updated August 13, 2026
Jammy eggs are about 7 minutes for that custardy center. Use the timer below.
Boil for
7 minutes
Custardy, jammy center.
A jammy egg is the sweet spot between runny and fully set, with a tender white and a thick, custardy yolk that's still slightly molten in the center. The magic number is about 7 minutes in gently boiling water. That single extra minute past soft-boiled lets the yolk firm just enough to cling to a spoon while staying glossy and rich, which is why jammy eggs are a favorite on ramen, grain bowls, salads, and avocado toast.
Lower the eggs in with a spoon, hold a steady simmer, and start the timer right away; extra-large or cold eggs may need an extra 15 to 30 seconds. The crucial step is an immediate ice-water bath the moment the timer ends, which halts cooking so the yolk doesn't keep setting into a hard center and makes the shell much easier to peel. Pick the jammy setting above and let the countdown handle the timing.
Hard Boiled Eggs Timer, full chart
| How do you want them? | Boil for |
|---|---|
| Soft (runny yolk) | 6 minutes , Runny yolk, just-set white. |
| Jammy (custardy yolk) | 7 minutes , Custardy, jammy center. |
| Medium (fudgy yolk) | 9 minutes , Fudgy, barely-set yolk. |
| Hard (fully set) | 12 minutes , Fully set yolk, no green ring. |
Tips
- Lower eggs gently into already-boiling water, then start the timer.
- Transfer to an ice bath immediately to stop cooking and make peeling easy.
- Older eggs (a week or two) peel far more easily than fresh ones.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you boil a jammy egg?
About 7 minutes in gently boiling water produces a jammy egg with a set white and a thick, custardy yolk. Move it straight to an ice bath so the yolk doesn't keep cooking.
Why did my jammy egg come out hard?
Usually it cooked a touch too long or sat in hot water afterward. Stick close to 7 minutes and transfer the egg to ice water immediately to stop the yolk from setting further.