To boil eggs for deviled eggs, the ideal cooking time is generally between 9 to 12 minutes, depending on the method and desired yolk texture:
- A common and effective method is to bring eggs to a boil, then turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the eggs sit for about 10 to 12 minutes. This yields fully cooked yolks without overcooking
- For the best yolk texture specifically for deviled eggs, expert advice suggests boiling the eggs for about 9 to 10 minutes. This slightly shorter time helps avoid a dry or chalky yolk, which is important for creamy filling
- Another approach is to boil eggs in rapidly boiling water for 9 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice water bath for 15 minutes. The ice bath stops cooking and makes peeling easier while preserving yolk color
- Some recipes call for boiling eggs for 11 minutes before an ice bath, which also produces bright yellow yolks and firm whites suitable for deviled eggs
- A longer simmer method involves boiling eggs for 1 minute, then simmering gently for 20 minutes, followed by cooling in cold water for 15 minutes. This produces very firm eggs but may be more than needed for typical deviled eggs
Summary recommendation:
- Boil eggs in water at a rolling boil for about 9 to 11 minutes.
- Immediately transfer eggs to an ice water bath for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Peel and prepare for deviled eggs.
This method ensures perfectly cooked yolks with a creamy texture ideal for deviled eggs filling, and easy peeling with bright yolk color
