I’ve always been a little obsessed with finding the easiest way to get that perfectly soft, jammy yolk without the fuss of boiling water or setting multiple timers. When I discovered that my air fryer could handle eggs just as well as it handles fries, chicken, and veggies, I knew I had to test it out. The results? Pure magic—soft boiled eggs that are creamy, tender, and consistently cooked every single time.
What I love about this recipe is the simplicity. No waiting for water to boil, no guessing if the eggs are ready, and no standing over the stove. Just pop the eggs in the basket, set the time, and let the air fryer do its thing. Whether you’re meal prepping, building a nourishing breakfast, or just craving that gooey golden center, these air fryer soft boiled eggs will quickly become your go-to.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Eggs: The star of the recipe. Fresh, high-quality eggs make all the difference. Look for large eggs so the timing stays consistent, and try to use eggs that aren’t extremely fresh (about a week old), as they peel much more easily.
Ice water: After cooking, the eggs take a quick dip in an ice bath. This not only stops the cooking process but also helps the shells slide off with less effort. It’s a small step that makes peeling so much easier.
Air fryer: While not an edible ingredient, this piece of equipment is crucial. Using an air fryer ensures even cooking and takes away the unpredictability of stovetop boiling. It’s convenient, hands-free, and perfect for those who love consistency.
Ingredients List
- 4 large eggs
- Ice water (enough to fill a medium bowl)
How to Make Air Fryer Soft Boiled Eggs
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer
Set your air fryer to 270°F (130°C). Preheating ensures the eggs start cooking right away, giving you that perfect soft-boiled texture.
Step 2: Place the eggs in the basket
Gently set the eggs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid stacking or crowding so that the hot air circulates evenly around them.
Step 3: Cook the eggs
Cook the eggs for 9–10 minutes, depending on how soft you like your yolks. Nine minutes will give you a custardy center, while 10 minutes results in a firmer but still jammy yolk.
Step 4: Chill the eggs
Once the time is up, transfer the eggs immediately into a bowl of ice water. Let them sit for at least 5 minutes. This halts the cooking process and makes peeling less frustrating.
Step 5: Peel and enjoy
Crack the shells gently and peel under running water for best results. Slice them open and enjoy that silky yolk on toast, in ramen, or as a protein-packed snack.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use large eggs for consistent results. Smaller or larger eggs will need timing adjustments.
- Don’t skip the ice bath—it’s the secret to easy peeling and perfect yolk texture.
- Every air fryer runs slightly differently. Test the timing with one egg before making a larger batch.
- If you want to store them, keep peeled eggs in the fridge for up to 2 days. Unpeeled soft boiled eggs can last up to 4 days.
- For ramen-style eggs, marinate peeled eggs in soy sauce, mirin, and water for a few hours.
FAQs
Can I make more than four eggs at once?
Yes! Just make sure they’re in a single layer and not stacked. The timing stays the same.
What if my air fryer doesn’t go as low as 270°F?
Set it to the closest temperature and test with one egg. You may need to adjust the cooking time by a minute or two.
How do I know if my eggs are done?
Crack one open after cooking. If it’s too soft or too firm for your liking, adjust the next batch by 1 minute up or down.
Can I meal prep with these eggs?
Absolutely! Store them in the fridge and reheat briefly in warm water if you want them slightly warmed before serving.
What’s the difference between soft boiled and hard boiled in the air fryer?
Soft boiled eggs are cooked for a shorter time (around 9–10 minutes), while hard boiled eggs need about 14–15 minutes at the same temperature.