Jammy Eggs That Turn Out Perfect Every Time (Soft-Boiled Eggs)

These jammy eggs are the perfect addition to any meal! I love putting them on toast, adding them to a salad, or snacking on them on their own with a little salt and pepper.  I think they're so much better than regular hard-boiled eggs. I mean it's tough to beat with a soft and custardy yolk surrounded by a firm but tender egg white.

The Best Soft-Boiled Eggs

I’ve been obsessed with making soft-boiled eggs recently. I love how quick and easy they are to make and the versatility of them. I like mine really soft with an almost runny yolk and tender egg white, and I've been playing around with how to make them achieve that perfect consistency. 

After countless attempts and experimenting with different methods, I think I found a way to make the best jammy consistency. 

I found that steaming the eggs instead of boiling them delivers the most consistent results with the best texture. My new technique gives you a creamy yolk that’s neither too runny nor too firm with just the right amount of “jamminess.”

Oh, and I love how versatile they are. I've eaten them on toast, in a salad, with steak, in ramen bowls, or just with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a quick, protein-packed breakfast. 

Ingredients

Now, the best part about this recipe might be that you literally only need 1 ingredient to make it!

Here’s all you need to make perfect jammy eggs:

• 4 eggs

How to Make Jammy Eggs

Step 1: Steam the Eggs

First, bring 1 inch of water to a rolling boil in a covered pot. Once boiling, carefully lower the eggs into the water one at a time using a spoon.

Immediately reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.

Step 2: Set the Timer

Once all the eggs are in the water, set a timer for exactly 7 minutes and 30 seconds. I've found that this is the time that makes the eggs develop that perfect jammy yolk.

Step 3: Transfer to an Ice Bath

While the eggs are cooking, prepare an ice bath by filling a medium bowl with cold water and ice cubes.

As soon as the timer goes off, use a spoon to carefully remove the eggs from the pot and place them in the ice bath. Let the eggs chill in the cold water for 3 minutes.

Step 4: Peel and Serve

After the eggs have cooled, gently crack them all over and peel the shell off.

Finally, serve the eggs warm or cold, seasoned with salt and pepper. 

Expert Tips for Perfect Soft-Boiled Eggs

• Steam, don’t boil: Steaming the eggs instead of fully submerging them in water helps the whites set perfectly without overcooking the yolk. This method makes it easier to control the consistency of the eggs and gives the yolk that slightly runny texture.
• Simmer on low heat: Once you’ve added the eggs to the pot, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. A rolling boil will crack the shells or cause uneven cooking, so make sure you turn the temperature down!
• Peel the eggs underwater: If you’re struggling to peel the eggs, try peeling them under running water or in a bowl of water. This can help loosen the shell and make the peeling process smoother. 
• Don’t overcook the eggs: Timing is everything with jammy eggs. Stick to the 7-minute and 30-second mark to get that perfect soft yolk. If you prefer a slightly firmer yolk, add 30 more seconds, but no more.

FAQs About This Jammy Eggs Recipe

How long do jammy eggs last?

You can store peeled or unpeeled jammy eggs in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container.

What can I serve with jammy eggs?

As I've mentioned a few times, jammy eggs are incredibly versatile. Serve them on avocado toast, in a house salad, with this breakfast casserole, alongside these waffles, or with some breakfast sausage.