If you love the comforting flavors of Earl Grey tea and vanilla, this London Fog Cake is going to become a new favorite. This version is designed to be both indulgent and approachable, perfect for cozy gatherings or an elegant afternoon treat. The London Fog Cake combines the aromatic bergamot notes of Earl Grey with a tender, moist crumb and a luscious vanilla-infused frosting.
What makes this recipe special is the way the Earl Grey tea is steeped directly into the cake batter and frosting, creating a deep, fragrant flavor without overpowering sweetness. Whether you're hosting a tea party or just want a unique dessert to enjoy with your afternoon cup, this cake fits the bill beautifully.
This recipe also offers a streamlined approach, using simple ingredients and straightforward steps that save time without compromising on the sophisticated taste. It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of elegance to your dessert table with minimal fuss.
Get ready to impress friends and family with this charming London Fog Cake that captures the essence of the classic tea in a delightful dessert form.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this London Fog Cake will become your go-to for special occasions or simple indulgence:
- Infused with authentic Earl Grey tea for a distinctive floral and citrus aroma.
- Moist and tender crumb thanks to tea-steeping and quality ingredients.
- Easy to make with no complicated techniques or hard-to-find components.
- Perfect balance of sweet vanilla frosting complements the bergamot flavor.
- Great for tea parties, birthdays, or cozy weekend baking.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a London Fog Cake that’s bursting with Earl Grey flavor and vanilla sweetness.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- For frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 Earl Grey tea bags
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
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If you prefer, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier touch or use almond milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free twist. For the frosting, steep the tea bags longer for a stronger Earl Grey flavor.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 10 slices
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
How to Make London Fog Cake - In Bloom Bakery
This step-by-step guide will walk you through making your own Earl Grey-infused London Fog Cake with simplicity and confidence.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Steep the Earl Grey tea bags in 3/4 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove bags and allow the tea to cool to warm.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the sour cream and the cooled Earl Grey tea until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 32-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cakes bake, prepare the frosting. Steep the tea bags in 1/4 cup hot water for 10 minutes. Remove bags and let cool.
- Beat the butter on medium speed until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with the steeped tea, heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Once the cakes have cooled completely, frost the layers, stacking them carefully, and spread remaining frosting evenly on top and sides.
You’ll know your London Fog Cake is perfectly baked when the edges start to pull away slightly from the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips to ensure your London Fog Cake is a stunning success every time.
- Use fresh Earl Grey tea bags for the richest flavor infusion.
- Do not overmix your batter to keep the crumb tender and moist.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
- Adjust steeping time of tea in frosting for stronger or subtler flavor.
- For a smoother frosting, sift powdered sugar before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of black tea or creamy chai latte to enhance the bergamot notes. Add a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for added freshness and texture.
It’s an elegant dessert for afternoon tea parties, bridal showers, or any cozy get-together where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Storage and Reheating
Store the London Fog Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you want to keep it longer, wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use loose leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?
Yes, use about 2 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey steeped in boiling water for 10 minutes, then strain before adding to the batter and frosting.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend for similar texture and rise.
How do I avoid a dry cake when baking?
Be careful not to overbake; check the cake a few minutes before the timer ends. Also, ensure you measure flour accurately and do not overmix the batter.
Can I prepare this cake a day ahead?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day before and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature, then frost on the day you plan to serve.
Ready to treat yourself and your guests to a unique, flavorful cake? This London Fog Cake brings the comforting notes of Earl Grey tea into a soft, moist dessert that’s sure to brighten any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a slice of cozy elegance!