London Fog Cake Recipe

If you adore the soothing flavors of Earl Grey tea and the gentle floral notes of lavender, then you are absolutely going to fall in love with this London Fog Cake. This cake is like a cozy afternoon wrapped up in dessert form, combining the fragrant aromas of a classic London Fog tea latte with a decadently moist texture and luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite tells a story of elegance and comfort, making the London Fog Cake a perfect centerpiece for any tea party, celebration, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list—each item is straightforward, yet essential for capturing the delicate and fragrant character of the London Fog Cake. From the fragrant Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender that infuse the cake with their distinct aromas, to the fluffy buttermilk which lends moisture and lightness, every ingredient plays its part in creating layers of flavor and texture.

• Earl Grey tea (3 tbsp for cake, 2 tbsp for soak): This is the heart of the cake’s signature citrusy bergamot flavor that makes it unmistakable.
• Culinary lavender (1 tbsp for cake, 1/2 tbsp for soak, 1 tbsp for frosting): Adds a subtle floral note that beautifully complements the Earl Grey.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Provides structure and the perfect crumb to the cake.
• Baking powder and baking soda (1 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp): These leavening agents ensure your cake rises just right for a tender texture.
• Unsalted butter (10 tbsp for cake, 1 cup for frosting): For richness, moisture, and that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
• Granulated white sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and helps create a delicate crumb.
• Eggs (3): Bind the ingredients and add fluffiness.
• Vanilla bean paste (1 tbsp for cake, 1/2 tsp for soak, 1 tsp for frosting): Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Works to tenderize the cake and adds a slight tanginess.
• Whole milk (1/2 cup for soak): Acts as the foundation for the soaking syrup, helping infuse the cake with flavor.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and creaminess to the soak.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): For the luscious frosting that’s creamy, tangy, and the perfect finishing touch.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and airy.
• Purple food coloring (optional): For a playful pop of lavender-hued beauty in the frosting.

How to Make London Fog Cake

Step 1: Prep and Flavor Your Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan with greasing and parchment paper. Grinding the Earl Grey tea and lavender ensures that every bit of their distinctive aromas gets evenly distributed, which is key to that nuanced London Fog Cake flavor. Sifting the ground tea and lavender with your flour and leavening agents not only blends flavors but ensures an even cake rise and texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Next, cream the softened butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates tiny air pockets that give the cake its incredible tenderness. Then gently blend in the eggs and vanilla bean paste — these enrich the batter with moisture and classic warmth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Adding the buttermilk and dry ingredients alternately helps keep the batter smooth without overmixing. This approach guarantees your cake will be moist and tender without being dense or tough. A rubber spatula helps scrape down the bowl to get all that delicious batter mixed perfectly.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared pan and pop it in the oven for around 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan first, then gently lift it out using the parchment and transfer it to a wire rack until it’s fully cooled.

Step 5: Prepare the Earl Grey Milk Soak

While the cake cools, gently warm the whole milk and steep the Earl Grey tea and lavender to extract all those lovely flavors. Strain the milk and stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla. This soak will make your London Fog Cake extra moist and infuse it with that irresistible tea flavor.

Step 6: Make the Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting

Grinding the lavender again ensures no big pieces make their way into your frosting – just pure floral essence. Beat the butter until fluffy, add cold cream cheese, then powdered sugar, lavender, and vanilla. The optional purple food coloring gives this frosting a dreamy hue that fits perfectly with the tea-inspired theme.

Step 7: Assemble Your London Fog Cake

Trim a thin layer off the top so the soak can absorb without pooling. Use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes all across the top, letting the Earl Grey milk soak seep deep into the cake. Patience here is key – slowly pour the soak and watch the cake soak up every bit of that fragrant goodness. Finally, spread a thick layer of frosting over the top and slice into sixteen beautiful pieces to share.

How to Serve London Fog Cake

Garnishes

A little goes a long way when it comes to garnishes for the London Fog Cake. A few sprigs of fresh lavender or a light dusting of edible glitter can elevate the presentation instantly. You might also sprinkle finely crushed Earl Grey tea leaves on top just before serving for an extra aromatic punch that hints at what’s inside.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple cup of brewed Earl Grey or a classic London Fog latte (tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup). For something lighter, fresh berries or a delicate fruit compote provide a refreshing contrast that balances the creaminess and sweetness of the cake.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on delicate china with a thin drizzle of honey over the frosting for an added touch of elegance. If you’re feeling adventurous, transform the cake into mini trifles by layering pieces with whipped cream and candied lavender blossoms in pretty glass jars. Presentation can turn this lovely cake into a truly memorable experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover London Fog Cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and moist for up to 3 days at room temperature. The cream cheese frosting is best kept cool but make sure to bring slices back to room temperature before enjoying to get the full flavor and texture experience.

Freezing

You can freeze the London Fog Cake either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep beautifully for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the fridge and then bring it to room temperature for best results.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you prefer it slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds. The warmth will revive the softness and gently enhance the fragrant Earl Grey and lavender notes without melting the frosting too much.

FAQs

What exactly is a London Fog Cake?

London Fog Cake is a dessert inspired by the popular tea latte that combines Earl Grey tea, lavender, and vanilla flavors baked into a moist and fragrant cake with a creamy frosting.

Can I use a different type of tea instead of Earl Grey?

While Earl Grey is key to achieving the distinct bergamot flavor of London Fog, you could experiment with other floral or citrus teas, but expect a different flavor profile.

Is culinary lavender necessary or can I substitute it?

Culinary lavender contributes an authentic floral aroma essential to this cake’s charm. If you can’t find it, you can reduce or omit it, but the cake will lose a signature note.

How do I make sure my cake is moist and flavorful?

Don’t skip the Earl Grey milk soak – it infuses extra moisture and tea flavor. Also, be sure not to overbake, and always allow the cake to cool completely before soaking and frosting.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind the texture may change. Be sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder for the best results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cake that’s not only beautiful but delivers an unforgettable combination of tea, lavender, and creamy frosting, the London Fog Cake should become your new go-to dessert. It’s elegant enough for special occasions yet comforting enough for any day you want to treat yourself or a loved one. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every fragrant, luscious bite as much as I do!

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