Name: Decadent London Fog Cake: A Cozy Dessert Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free baking flour for gluten-free option); 1.25 cups granulated sugar; 3 large eggs (replace with flax eggs for vegan option); 0.5 cups butter (use vegan butter for dairy-free option); 1.5 cups whole milk (substitute with oat milk for dairy-free option); 2 tablespoons loose Earl Grey tea (or 6 tea bags); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (regular vanilla extract works as a substitute); 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup heavy cream

The aroma of freshly brewed Earl Grey tea wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café on a rainy London afternoon. Today, I’m excited to turn that warm nostalgia into a delicious homemade treat: London Fog Cake! This delightful dessert captures the enchanting flavors of bergamot in a tender, moist cake layered with rich vanilla bean buttercream. It’s an easy yet sophisticated option for those special moments or when you simply want to elevate your afternoon tea ritual. Plus, with simple adaptations, you can easily make this cake dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan, making it a joyous creation for everyone to enjoy. Ready to impress your loved ones with this cozy indulgence? Let’s get baking!

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Why is London Fog Cake a must-bake?

Comforting, this cake evokes the cozy ambiance of your favorite café, transforming a warm drink into a delightful dessert. Versatile enough to cater to different diets, you can easily adapt to dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan preferences without sacrificing flavor. Aromatic Earl Grey tea infuses each bite with a unique twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds. Showstopper appeal means it’s perfect for special occasions or an elegant afternoon treat. And let’s not forget that simple preparation makes it accessible for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Pair it with fresh berries or a cup of Earl Grey tea for the complete experience!

London Fog Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Layers
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and enhances richness; for vegan, replace with flax eggs.
• Butter – Contributes richness and flavor; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Whole Milk – Essential for steeping the tea and extracting flavor; substitute with oat milk for dairy-free.
• Loose Earl Grey Tea – The star flavor ingredient; steep for a full-bodied taste; alternatively, use 6 regular Earl Grey tea bags.
• Baking Powder – Provides lift and fluffiness to the cake.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Imparts a deep vanilla flavor and visual appeal; regular vanilla extract works as a substitute.

For the Vanilla Bean Buttercream
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the buttercream.
• Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and smooth texture to the buttercream.

This London Fog Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a cozy experience waiting to happen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake

Step 1: Prepare Tea Milk
Begin by heating 1½ cups of whole milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s steaming, but not boiling. Remove it from heat, add 1-2 tablespoons of loose Earl Grey tea, and let it steep for 10 minutes. Strain the tea leaves and allow the infused milk to cool to room temperature while you prep the other ingredients.

Step 2: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure your London Fog Cake layers come out smoothly. Additionally, consider lining the bottom of each pan with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened butter and 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate 3 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into the creamed mixture, alternating with the cooled Earl Grey milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to ensure your cake remains fluffy and tender.

Step 5: Bake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Make Buttercream
While your cake layers cool, prepare the vanilla bean buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened butter on medium speed until creamy and light, about 2 minutes. Gradually add in 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until combined before adding in 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste, a pinch of salt, and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream, blending until smooth and fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble Cake
Once your cake layers are completely cool, it’s time to assemble your London Fog Cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. Repeat with the second layer, then place the third layer on top. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it for an elegant finish.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice your beautifully decorated London Fog Cake into generous pieces, revealing its tender layers. For an extra touch, consider pairing it with fresh berries or a warm cup of Earl Grey tea. This delightful cake is now ready to bring comfort and joy to your table!

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Expert Tips for the Best London Fog Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to improve the cake’s texture and prevent lumps in the batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy London Fog Cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent your vanilla bean buttercream from melting and sliding off.
Perfect Steeping: Steep your Earl Grey tea for no longer than 10 minutes to avoid bitterness, ensuring that the delightful flavor shines through.
Layer Evenly: When assembling the cake, spread the buttercream evenly between layers to ensure a well-balanced slice every time.

London Fog Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to personalize your London Fog Cake with these delightful suggestions; let your creativity shine and tantalize your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk to create a sumptuous dairy-free version without compromising on flavor.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this cozy cake.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs made from flaxseed meal and water for a superb plant-based alternative. The taste remains just as lovely!
Citrusy Twist: Replace Earl Grey with Lady Grey tea for a refreshing hint of citrus that brightens every bite. It adds a zesty surprise to your cake!
Lavender Infusion: Incorporate fresh lavender into the buttercream for an enchanting floral note that blends beautifully with the cake’s flavor.
Lemon Buttercream: Elevate the taste further by whipping in lemon zest to your buttercream, creating a refreshing and bright flavor contrast.
Lemon Curd Layers: For an unexpected twist, add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for a burst of tangy goodness in each mouthful.
Chocolate Delight: Craving chocolate? Fold in cocoa powder (about ½ cup) into the batter for a delightful chocolate London Fog Cake that tea lovers will adore!

These variations not only cater to dietary preferences, but they also allow you to express your unique flair. And if you find yourself yearning for other cake inspirations, consider exploring our Decadent Chocolate Mousse Cake or the delightful Blueberry Cake Donuts for that sweet touch of comfort!

Make Ahead Options

These London Fog Cakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, letting them cool completely, and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful. You can also make the vanilla bean buttercream and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just bring it to room temperature and re-whip before frosting. When ready to serve, simply assemble the cake by layering and frosting it, and you’ll have a breathtaking dessert ready with minimal effort, all while saving precious time on busy days!

How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake

Room Temperature: Store the London Fog Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To warm a slice, place it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature—perfect for that heartfelt cozy experience!

What to Serve with London Fog Cake

Indulging in a slice of this cake invites an opportunity to create a delightful, cozy tea experience right at home.

Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cake, enhancing its flavors beautifully.
Earl Grey Tea: Brew a cup of the same tea used in the cake for a harmonious pairing, deepening the aromatic experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a luxurious touch to each slice, making it even more indulgent.
Lemon Curd: This tangy delight offers a zesty contrast to the sweet cake, bringing brightness and balance to the dessert.
Lavender-Infused Honey: Drizzle over each serving for a floral note that echoes the cake while adding a hint of sweetness.
Dessert Wine: A light dessert wine, like a Moscato, can elevate the experience, complementing the bergamot notes in the cake.
Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or Earl Grey ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast that adds a touch of indulgence to your dessert plate.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and light, this drink cleanses the palate and makes every bite of cake a special experience.

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London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for the London Fog Cake?
I recommend using loose leaf Earl Grey tea for the best flavor. The aromatic bergamot and full-bodied taste will really shine when steeped in milk. If you prefer convenience, 6 regular Earl Grey tea bags will also work perfectly!

How should I store the London Fog Cake?
To keep your London Fog Cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week in a well-wrapped container to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze the London Fog Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just slice it or wrap the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and savor its delightful flavors!

What if my cake layers rise unevenly?
If you experience uneven layers, don’t fret! Just make sure your oven is properly calibrated and consider using an oven thermometer. Additionally, ensure you evenly divide the batter among the pans, and check that your pans are leveled on the counter before pouring. If any layers domed too much, you can trim them with a serrated knife for a flat surface.

Is the London Fog Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This London Fog Cake can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. If someone requires a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and plant-based milk like oat milk. For vegan eaters, flax eggs work wonderfully as a replacement for the eggs in this recipe!

How can I enhance the flavor of the cake?
To add an extra burst of flavor, consider infusing the buttercream with some lemon zest or incorporating fresh lavender into the mix! These subtle additions can elevate the cake experience to new heights, ensuring every bite is a delightful adventure.