When life gives you a London Fog Cake, you know it’s about to get deliciously cozy. This delightful dessert combines the flavors of Earl Grey tea and creamy vanilla in a way that makes your taste buds dance like they just won the lottery. Picture this: a fluffy, moist cake that sings with the warm, aromatic notes of bergamot and is draped in a velvety frosting that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly day. It’s the kind of cake that invites you to curl up on the couch with a good book and a cup of tea—pure bliss!
I first discovered this gem at a quaint little café during a rainy afternoon in London. The moment I took my first bite, I felt like I had been transported to tea time with the Queen herself (without the need for fancy hats, mind you!). Perfect for birthdays, brunches, or just because it’s Tuesday, this London Fog Cake promises an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This London Fog Cake offers an effortless preparation process that surprises everyone with its complex flavors
- Its beautiful layers make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering
- The combination of tea and vanilla creates a unique taste that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea
- Versatile enough to be served as dessert or an afternoon treat, it’s perfect for any occasion
My friends were utterly amazed when I brought this cake to our potluck dinner; they couldn’t believe something so delicious was homemade!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cake Flour: Opt for cake flour for lightness; it makes your cake fluffy and soft.
Earl Grey Tea Bags: Choose high-quality bags or loose leaves for maximum flavor infusion.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener adds moisture and structure; don’t skimp on it!
Unsalted Butter: Always use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness.
Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise.
Eggs: Large eggs work best; they help bind everything together beautifully.
Heavy Cream: For frosting richness; feel free to substitute with half-and-half if desired.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for a depth of flavor that elevates the cake.
Powdered Sugar: Essential for achieving that smooth frosting consistency we all crave.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Pans: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust with flour.
Infuse Your Milk with Tea: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm one cup of milk. Steep 3 Earl Grey tea bags in the milk for about 10 minutes until fragrant; remove bags and let cool.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of cake flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until combined.
Create Your Batter Base: In another bowl, beat ½ cup unsalted butter until creamy. Add in two large eggs one at a time along with cooled infused milk and mix until smooth.
Combine Mixtures Carefully: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using gentle strokes to maintain airy texture; do not overmix unless you want chewy cake—yikes!
Bake Your Cakes Until Golden Brown: Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cakes spring back when touched lightly; cool completely before frosting.
Now you’re ready to frost!
Prepare Frosting While Cakes Cool: Whip together 1 cup heavy cream and 2 cups powdered sugar until peaks form. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix well.
Assemble Your Beautiful Cake Layers: Place one layer on your serving plate. Spread generously with frosting before adding the second layer on top; frost the top and sides as desired.
Serve slices adorned with fresh berries or even a dusting of powdered sugar if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy every bite while sipping your favorite tea—what could be better?
This charming London Fog Cake is bound to become your new go-to dessert recipe, warming hearts and filling bellies one slice at a time!
You Must Know
- London Fog Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of earl grey tea and vanilla
- The aromatic blend creates a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for gatherings
- Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a lingering taste of sophistication
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by brewing the earl grey tea, then cream the butter and sugar while it cools. Mix dry ingredients separately before combining everything for an even, delightful batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap earl grey for chai tea for a spicier twist. You can also add lemon zest to brighten up the cake’s flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh earl grey tea bags for a more vivid flavor; stale bags can dull the taste significantly
- Ensure your butter is softened to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth batter
- Bake until golden brown, but avoid overbaking to keep it moist
Sometimes, I just make this cake when I need a pick-me-up after a long day; my friends rave about its comforting flavors and warmth.
FAQ
What makes London Fog Cake unique?
London Fog Cake uniquely combines earl grey tea and vanilla flavors, creating a sophisticated dessert experience.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
How should I serve London Fog Cake?
Serve it with whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar to enhance its elegance.
London Fog Cake
Indulge in the cozy delight of London Fog Cake, a heavenly dessert that marries the aromatic flavors of Earl Grey tea with creamy vanilla. This fluffy, moist cake is perfect for any occasion, inviting you to savor each bite as it melts in your mouth. Whether paired with tea or served as a showstopper at gatherings, this cake promises warmth and sophistication that will leave your guests enchanted.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cake flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 3 Earl Grey tea bags
- 1 cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and dust with flour.
- In a saucepan, warm the milk over low heat and steep the Earl Grey tea bags for about 10 minutes; remove bags and let cool.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time and incorporate the cooled infused milk; mix until smooth.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and springy to touch; let cool completely before frosting.
- For frosting, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until peaks form; add vanilla extract and mix well. Frost cooled cakes generously and serve with fresh berries if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
