London Fog Cake

Elegant, aromatic, and irresistibly moist—this London Fog Cake brings all the cozy vibes of the popular Earl Grey tea latte into a decadent dessert. With layers of soft Earl Grey-infused cake, silky vanilla bean frosting, and hints of bergamot and lavender, this cake is perfect for tea parties, birthdays, or anytime you want to impress with a unique and beautiful treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tea-Inspired Flavor – Infused with the distinctive taste of Earl Grey and vanilla.
Soft & Moist Texture – A tender crumb thanks to the tea-steeped milk and yogurt.
Elegant & Unique – A classy centerpiece for celebrations.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Layers can be baked and chilled in advance.
Customizable – Add lavender or lemon zest for extra depth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Earl Grey Cake:
1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
4 Earl Grey tea bags
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
2½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1¼ cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

For the Vanilla Bean Buttercream:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
2–3 tbsp milk or cream (for desired consistency)
Pinch of salt

Optional for Extra Flavor:
1 tsp lemon zest
½ tsp dried culinary lavender (lightly crushed)

Tools You’ll Need
Two 8-inch round cake pans
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Cooling rack
Spatula and offset spatula
Cake stand or serving plate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Steep the Tea

1. Heat the milk until just simmering (not boiling), then steep the Earl Grey tea bags in the hot milk for 10 minutes.
2. Gently press and remove tea bags, then let the milk cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—about 3–4 minutes.
6. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
7. Mix in vanilla extract (and lemon zest or lavender if using).
8. Alternate adding dry ingredients and tea-infused milk, beginning and ending with flour.
9. Fold in Greek yogurt for extra moisture.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
10. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
11. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
12. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Vanilla Bean Frosting
13. Beat softened butter until creamy.
14. Gradually add powdered sugar and salt, beating until light and fluffy.
15. Mix in vanilla bean paste and 2–3 tbsp milk to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake
16. Place one cake layer on a stand or plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
17. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
18. Smooth or swirl as desired. Garnish with dried lavender, lemon zest, or edible flowers.

Step 6: Chill & Serve
19. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes for clean slices.
20. Slice and serve at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect London Fog Cake
Use Strong Tea – Steep longer or use loose-leaf for a bolder flavor.
Cool Tea Milk – Avoid curdling the batter by letting the milk cool fully.
Don’t Overbake – Moisture is key—check early to avoid dryness.
Add a Drizzle – A light Earl Grey glaze or honey drizzle on slices adds extra wow.

Serving Suggestions
With Tea – Naturally pairs with a hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile.
As a Celebration Cake – Perfect for birthdays, showers, or brunches.
Mini Cakes – Bake in cupcake form for individual servings.
With Fresh Berries – Blueberries or blackberries add a lovely tart contrast.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Wrap unfrosted layers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before assembling.

Reheating:
Not needed – Serve this cake at room temperature for best taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use decaf tea?
   Yes! The flavor stays the same—great for sensitive guests or evening servings.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes—use plant milk and a dairy-free yogurt and butter alternative.
3. What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?
   Use pure vanilla extract, but paste adds deeper flavor and flecks.
4. Can I use store-bought frosting?
   You can, but homemade buttercream really enhances the flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

London Fog Cake is a dream for tea lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. With its rich layers, creamy frosting, and refined flavor profile, it transforms a comforting drink into an elegant, memorable dessert. Whether served at a celebration or just to make any day a little more special, this cake is bound to impress.

Bake it, share it, and don’t forget to tag your beautiful creation online—I’d love to see your twist on this tea-time treat!

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: British-Inspired

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – 1 of 12):
Calories: 390 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 150mg

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