There's a delightful chill in the air, and as I wrap my hands around a warm cup of Earl Grey tea, a wave of nostalgia sweeps over me. The rich aroma of bergamot and delicate notes of vanilla transport me to cozy afternoons spent in quaint tea shops. Inspired by those comforting moments, I decided to create something special in my kitchen—a London Fog Cake that captures the essence of my favorite brew in every delicious bite.
The smooth, buttery layers of this cake harmonize beautifully with the subtle hints of tea, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this cake is a savory adventure waiting to happen. With simple ingredients and an easy method, even novice bakers can whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection. Join me as we embark on this sweet journey and celebrate the cozy charm of a London Fog Cake!
Why You'll Love This London Fog Cake
- This London Fog Cake is incredibly easy to make, so even if you're a beginner, you can impress your friends and family with minimal effort.
- The unique flavor combination of Earl Grey tea and vanilla creates a delightful taste that is sure to please everyone at your table.
- Its versatility allows you to serve it for various occasions, from casual afternoon teas to elegant celebrations.
- With its visually stunning layers and creamy frosting, this cake is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
London Fog Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – provides the structure for a tender cake.
• Sugar – adds sweetness and helps retain moisture.
• Baking powder – ensures the cake rises perfectly.
• Salt – enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Unsalted butter – brings a rich flavor; make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
• Large eggs – contribute to a fluffy texture and richness.
• Milk (Earl Grey steeped) – infuses the cake with aromatic tea flavor.
• Earl Grey tea bags – the star ingredient that gives the cake its signature taste.
• Vanilla extract – adds a warm, comforting note to the flavor profile.
For the Frosting
• Unsalted butter – provides a creamy base for the frosting; ensure it's soft.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting while keeping it light and fluffy.
• Heavy cream – adds richness and helps achieve a smooth texture.
• Vanilla bean paste – enhances flavor with real vanilla specks for beauty.
Get ready to indulge in a delightful slice of London Fog Cake!
How to Make London Fog Cake
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Steep tea: Begin by warming the milk and steeping the Earl Grey tea bags for about 10 minutes. This infusion will give your cake its distinctive flavor, so allow it to cool after steeping.
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Preheat oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cake pans. Grease and line them with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and if you like, ground tea leaves. This ensures even mixing and a light, airy texture.
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Cream butter and eggs: In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
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Combine mixtures: Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the cooled tea-infused milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined for a tender cake.
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Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 24–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans before removing.
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Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until it's fluffy and smooth. This will create a luxurious frosting that beautifully complements the cake.
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Assemble the cake: Once the cake layers are cool, frost between the layers and over the top. Feel free to add a decorative swirl or floral design for a special touch!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of loose Earl Grey tea leaves for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with London Fog Cake?
There’s nothing quite like pairing a slice of this fragrant cake with delightful accompaniments that enhance its aromatic charm.
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Fresh Berries: The bright acidity of strawberries or raspberries complements the cake's sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast on the plate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious coolness, beautifully balancing the warm, rich flavors of the cake.
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Earl Grey Tea: Have a cup of steeped Earl Grey ready to accompany each slice. The familiar taste will echo the cake’s own flavor profile.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that enhances the indulgent experience of every bite of cake.
If you’re craving something warm, serve along with a delicate drizzle of warm caramel sauce. This adds a touch of decadence that brings out the cake's buttery texture.
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Chocolate Ganache: For those who love a rich chocolatey flavor, a drizzle of dark chocolate ganache can intensify the dessert and create an elegant finish.
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Chai Spiced Cookies: Pairing the cake with chai spiced cookies can create a beautiful harmony of flavors, echoing the warming spices found in both tea and cake.
Thoughtful pairings can transform your London Fog Cake into a multi-sensory experience that will surely delight each guest at your table.
How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake
Room Temperature: Store the London Fog Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Make sure it’s well wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wrapped cake layers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting or serving.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as it can dry out the cake.
Make Ahead Options
These London Fog Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake, let them cool completely, and then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. The frosting can also be made ahead of time; store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, just bring the frosting back to room temperature and beat it lightly before assembling the cake. This way, you'll enjoy deliciously fresh layers and creamy frosting, perfect for any occasion!
London Fog Cake Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your London Fog Cake experience!
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Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy this cake without gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk, and substitute the butter with coconut oil for a vegan version.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a refreshing citrusy layer that complements the Earl Grey beautifully.
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Chai Twist: Replace Earl Grey tea with chai tea bags to infuse warm spices into your cake, creating a cozy, aromatic dessert.
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Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for a luscious addition that contrasts stunningly with the tea flavor.
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Nutty Texture: Incorporate crushed almonds or hazelnuts into the frosting for a crunchy bite that elevates the smoothness of the cake.
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Caramel Drizzle: Top your frosted cake with a rich caramel drizzle to amplify the sweetness and add a gooey texture.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dry ingredients, giving the cake a warm, spicy depth for those chilly afternoons.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making London Fog Cake, ensure your butter is fully softened to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- To prevent overmixing, combine the wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated for a tender crumb.
- Remember to cool the steeped tea milk completely before mixing it into your batter to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Lastly, for best results, always use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven is at the right temperature before baking.
London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Earl Grey tea for my London Fog Cake?
Absolutely! When selecting Earl Grey tea, opt for high-quality loose-leaf or bagged varieties that have a strong, fragrant bergamot aroma. Look for teas that have a vibrant color; this typically indicates freshness. If you're unsure, a popular brand or a local tea shop can usually provide excellent recommendations!
What is the best way to store leftover London Fog Cake?
Very simple! Store any leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. This will ensure it stays moist and flavorful!
How can I freeze my London Fog Cake for later enjoyment?
The more the merrier when it comes to cake! To freeze your London Fog Cake, first ensure it’s completely cool. Wrap the individual cake layers in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving.
What should I do if my cake dome isn’t perfectly shaped?
No worries at all! If your London Fog Cake isn’t perfectly dome-shaped, you can level it by using a serrated knife. Gently trim the top until it's flat, then proceed to frost it. Remember, every home chef has faced this! Just add extra frosting to the top for a charming rustic look!
Is this cake suitable for someone with allergies?
Absolutely! However, this recipe calls for common allergens like eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you're cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider substituting eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and using gluten-free flour. For dairy-free options, swap the butter for a vegan alternative and use plant-based milk. Always check specific brands to avoid cross-contamination as well!
Can I make this cake in advance for a special occasion?
Definitely! I often prepare the London Fog Cake a day ahead of time. Simply bake and cool the cake layers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for the best flavor and presentation. It’s a fantastic way to lessen the stress of party preparations!
London Fog Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by warming the milk and steeping the Earl Grey tea bags for about 10 minutes. Allow to cool after steeping.
- Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cake pans. Grease and line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground tea leaves if desired.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and the cooled tea-infused milk into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 24–28 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla bean paste until fluffy.
- Once the cake layers are cool, frost between the layers and over the top. Add decorative touches if desired.
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