The recommended boiling time for eggs in a bear-shaped egg cooker is typically around 6 to 8 minutes for a hard-boiled egg and 4 to 5 minutes for a soft-boiled egg. This duration ensures that the eggs are cooked to perfection without overcooking, which can result in rubbery or tough yolks. The bear-shaped egg cooker is designed to maintain a consistent temperature, which contributes to the precise cooking time.

The reason for these specific times lies in the egg's composition and the cooking process. Eggs contain a protein called ovalbumin, which begins to coagulate and solidify at around 140°F (60°C). For a hard-boiled egg, the goal is to cook the egg until the yolk reaches a temperature of 160°F (71°C), which is typically achieved within the 6 to 8-minute range. In contrast, for a soft-boiled egg, the yolk is cooked to around 145°F (63°C), which is reached in about 4 to 5 minutes. The bear-shaped egg cooker's design, with its non-stick surface and even heat distribution, helps to ensure that the eggs are cooked uniformly, leading to the desired level of doneness. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), eggs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to prevent the risk of foodborne illness.