As I sat in a quaint café, the aroma of Earl Grey wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy afternoon filled with warmth and comfort. That magical moment inspired my twist on a classic favorite: the London Fog Cake. This delightful dessert harmoniously blends the elegant notes of bergamot tea with a creamy vanilla bean buttercream, creating a treat that is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate. Perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging during a quiet afternoon, this London Fog Cake offers a quick and impressive way to elevate your baking game. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can easily be adapted for gluten-free and dairy-free diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice. Curious to see how you can bring this sophisticated cake to life in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why is London Fog Cake so special?
Cozy Elegance: The London Fog Cake fuses the distinct flavors of Earl Grey tea with a fluffy vanilla bean buttercream, creating an elegant dessert fit for any occasion.
Customizable Delight: This recipe is easily adaptable—swap tea types or use gluten-free flour to fit various diets without sacrificing flavor.
Impressive Presentation: With its beautiful layers and creamy frosting, this cake is sure to become the star of your dessert table, leaving guests in awe.
Effortless Indulgence: You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a sophisticated treat that rivals any café’s offering.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy with fresh berries or even a glass of sparkling water alongside your cake, enhancing the afternoon tea experience—just like in your favorite tea shop!
London Fog Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the cake’s structure; consider a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for gluten-free variants.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps maintain its tenderness.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds rich moisture to the cake; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and helps the cake rise effectively.
• Earl Grey Tea – Infuses the cake with its signature flavor; opt for loose leaf tea for optimal taste—if unavailable, 6 tea bags can be used instead.
• Milk – Provides moisture and fat; swap with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the cake rises beautifully.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Imparts an intense vanilla flavor and attractive visual appeal; regular vanilla extract is also a good substitute.
For the Buttercream
• Unsalted Butter – Cream this to a fluffy texture for a rich base; remember, vegan butter can work here for dairy-free options.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream, creating a smooth texture.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the buttercream, but use coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – For a luxurious flavor boost; you can use regular vanilla extract as an alternative.
• Earl Grey Milk – Made from the tea-infused milk—is a perfect addition to tie in the signature London Fog Cake flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake
Step 1: Tea Infusion
Begin by heating 1½ cups of milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it starts to steam but not boil. Remove from heat, add 2 tablespoons of loose Earl Grey tea, and let it steep for 10 minutes. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the tea leaves, allowing the milk to cool to room temperature while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 2: Prep Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. This preparation is essential for achieving well-baked layers of your London Fog Cake.
Step 3: Creaming
In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1¾ cups of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 4-5 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and a pale yellow color. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, helping your cake rise beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add 3 large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Next, scrape in 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste for a wonderful flavor boost. Continue to beat for another minute until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, enhancing the richness of your London Fog Cake.
Step 5: Dry Ingredients Addition
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the cooled Earl Grey-infused milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Baking
Once your batter is mixed, evenly divide it among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Buttercream Preparation
While the cakes cool, prepare the vanilla bean buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, followed by 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of the cooled Earl Grey milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. Mix until the buttercream is smooth and spreadable, adding more cream if needed for desired consistency.
How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake
Room Temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture. Use an airtight container or wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap.
Fridge: If you plan to keep the cake longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Ensure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will bring back some of the soft, cozy vibes of your fresh London Fog Cake!
Expert Tips for London Fog Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing and texture. Cold ingredients can result in a dense London Fog Cake.
- Careful Tea Steeping: Avoid oversteeping the Earl Grey tea to prevent your cake from tasting bitter. A maximum of 10 minutes is ideal for optimal flavor.
- Cooling Time: Make sure to fully cool your cake layers before frosting to prevent melting your buttercream. Patience is key for a beautiful finish!
- Whipping Buttercream: Beat your butter for the vanilla bean buttercream until it’s light and fluffy, which creates a smoother texture. A well-aerated buttercream makes all the difference!
- Baking Evenness: To ensure your cake layers bake evenly, rotate the pans halfway through baking. This step can help avoid unevenly baked layers.
- Flavor Variations: Curious about changing things up? Experiment with different teas or add a pinch of lemon zest to the batter for a unique twist on your London Fog Cake!
What to Serve with London Fog Cake
Indulge in a delightful dining experience by creating a full meal around this charming dessert.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the cake’s sweetness, making for a comforting combination.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a vibrant, fruity contrast, enhancing the floral notes of the cake.
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Sparkling Water: The effervescence cleanses the palate and complements the earthy flavors of the Earl Grey beautifully.
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Lemon Curd: A tart layer between the cake’s layers brings a refreshing twist that brightens the overall experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious touch, melting slightly over the warm cake for pure bliss.
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Herbal Tea: Steamed chamomile tea or even lavender blends echo the Earl Grey’s fragrant profile while offering a soothing finish to your meal.
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Cheese Board: Pair with mild cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a sophisticated touch – their creaminess accentuates the cake’s buttercream.
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Chocolate Mousse: Rich, silky chocolate mousse provides a decadent contrast that pairs well with the lightness of the cake.
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Champagne: A glass of bubbly elevates the whole experience, bringing a celebratory touch to your sweet indulgence.
London Fog Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to customize this delightful recipe and make it your own, adding flavors or swaps that ignite your culinary creativity.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour for a fluffy alternative everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the buttercream.
- Chai Twist: Swap Earl Grey tea with chai tea for a spiced version that warms the soul on chilly days.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate lemon zest or lemon extract in the batter for a bright, zesty flavor that beautifully complements the bergamot.
- Lavender Infusion: Add dried culinary lavender into the buttercream for a stunning floral note that elevates the overall taste.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the cake batter for a sweet surprise in every slice.
- Layered Surprise: Spread a layer of lemon curd or your favorite jam between the cake layers for an unexpected burst of flavor.
- Fruity Add-In: Toss in fresh raspberries or blueberries into the batter before baking for a fruity twist that gives a pop of color and flavor.
If you’re in the mood for more delicious treats, consider trying out my Strawberry Cheesecake Dump for a fruity delight or indulge in this luscious Chocolate Mousse Cake for a rich, decadent experience. Enjoy the sweet adventure of baking!
Make Ahead Options
These London Fog Cake layers are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool them completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For the vanilla bean buttercream, prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To maintain the buttercream’s fluffy texture, allow it to come to room temperature before whipping it briefly to restore its creaminess. When you’re ready to serve, just frost the chilled cake layers, and you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!
London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using loose leaf Earl Grey tea, as it provides a more robust and aromatic taste compared to tea bags. If you’re in a pinch, 6 standard tea bags can work just fine. Just remember to steep them properly to get the most out of that lovely bergamot flavor!
How should I store the London Fog Cake after baking?
Very good question! To maintain the freshness, store your cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well-covered to keep it from drying out or picking up any unwanted fridge odors.
Can I freeze the London Fog Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This protects them from freezer burn and keeps them moist. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and savor that cozy flavor!
What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your London Fog Cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to a couple of reasons. First, ensure your baking powder is fresh; it should be replaced every 6-12 months if unused. Also, overmixing the batter can lead to a denser cake. When you combine dry and wet ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Finally, make sure all ingredients, especially your eggs and butter, are at room temperature for optimal incorporation of air.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! The London Fog Cake is vegetarian, and you can easily adapt it for gluten-free diets by using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. For those who are dairy-free, simply swap out the unsalted butter for vegan butter and use plant-based milk. It’s a delicious delight that everyone can enjoy!
Can I add additional flavors to this cake?
Very much so! This recipe is incredibly versatile. You could swap Earl Grey for Lady Grey tea for zest or introduce flavors like chai for a spicier twist. Another delightful idea is to incorporate lemon zest into the batter or add fresh lavender to the buttercream for a charming floral note. The more the merrier!
Indulge in a Cozy London Fog Cake with Buttercream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 1 ½ cups of milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Remove from heat, add 2 tablespoons of loose Earl Grey tea, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream ¾ cup butter and 1¾ cups sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Add 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste and mix until smooth.
- Whisk together 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add to wet mixture, alternating with cooled Earl Grey-infused milk.
- Divide batter among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare buttercream by beating 1 cup butter until fluffy. Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, then add 2 tablespoons heavy cream, 2 tablespoons Earl Grey milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth.
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