Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the ramekins on a baking dish and add a teaspoon of butter to each, then melt in the oven for about 3 minutes until fragrant and bubbling.
Carefully crack an egg into each warmed ramekin, aiming to keep the yolk intact and centered. Gently season with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Sprinkle chopped herbs over the eggs for a fresh, vibrant aroma. If desired, add a small amount of grated cheese on top for extra richness.
Pour hot water into the baking dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the ramekins. This water bath creates a gentle, even heat that helps cook the eggs softly.
Slide the baking dish into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the whites, which should be just set and slightly puffed, with edges turning a delicate golden brown.
Remove the ramekins carefully from the water bath and let them rest for a minute. The whites will firm slightly, and the yolk should shimmer with a soft, runny center.
Garnish with a final sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cheese if you like. Serve immediately with toasted bread or a simple salad for a mindful, nourishing breakfast.