Bring eggs to room temperature

Place eggs in a large saucepan. Cover them with cool water by 1 inch. Cover pan with a lid and bring water to a rolling boil over high heat; when the water has reached a boil, set the timer for the desired time. Boil for 6 – 7 minutes for perfect hard boiled eggs.

For soft-boiled eggs: 4 minutes

For slightly soft-boiled eggs: 5 minutes

For custardy yet firm soft-boiled eggs: 6 minutes

For creamy hard-boiled eggs: 7 minutes

For firm yet still creamy hard-boiled eggs: 8 minutes

For very firm hard boiled eggs: 9 minutes

Using a slotted spoon, transfer them to a large bowl with ice cold water and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Or you can place them under cool running water to stop the cooking. This will also help the eggs peel easily.