Amidst the clink of teacups and the soft murmur of a cozy café, I stumbled upon a divine twist on dessert—the London Fog Cake. This enchanting treat captures the soothing essence of Earl Grey tea and the delicate floral notes of lavender, making it the perfect indulgence for any gathering. What I love most about this cake is its airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by a luxurious lavender-infused milk soak that takes it to new heights. Whether you’re seeking a delightful crowd-pleaser or a wholesome option with gluten-free and vegan variations, this London Fog Cake promises to satisfy your sweet cravings without the fuss. So, ready to dive into this tea-infused wonder? Let’s get baking!
Why is London Fog Cake so special?
Unique Flavor Profile: The blend of Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender creates a sophisticated taste that’s both refreshing and comforting, reminiscent of a cozy afternoon tea.
Versatile Options: With gluten-free and vegan variations, this recipe caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, making it a hit at any gathering.
Moist and Airy Texture: Each slice showcases a lavender-infused milk soak, ensuring a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience that pairs perfectly with tea.
Effortless Preparation: Forget complicated baking techniques! This cake is simple to whip up, so you can enjoy the process as much as the end result.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a birthday, tea party, or just an indulgent weekend treat, this London Fog Cake will impress your guests, making it a memorable centerpiece.
Ready for even more unique dessert inspirations? Don’t miss out on our delicious Russian Honey Cake or the delightful Cinnamon Roll Cake to satisfy your sweet tooth!
London Fog Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Earl Grey Tea – Infuses the cake with robust flavor; use loose leaf or tea bags (equivalent to 2 tablespoons of loose tea).
• Culinary Lavender – Adds enchanting floral notes to both the cake and frosting; ensure it is culinary-grade for safe consumption.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; can be substituted with gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure freshness for best results.
• Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder for proper rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; use fine salt for uniform distribution.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; must be at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and aids in creating a fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
• Eggs – Provide moisture and richness; room temperature eggs combine better for a smoother batter.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Adds depth of flavor; can substitute with vanilla extract if needed.
• Buttermilk – Contributes to the cake’s moistness and slight tang, making it extra delightful.
For the Milk Soak
• Whole Milk – Keeps the cake moist; used in the milk soak to enhance texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Sweetens and enriches the soak while contributing to the cake’s luscious consistency.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting and provides creaminess; ensure it’s cold for proper whipping.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust to taste for desired sweetness.
• Lavender (for frosting) – Finely ground to incorporate flavor beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract – Optional for added sweetness in frosting for more complexity.
• Purple Food Coloring – Optional for aesthetic enhancement, making your cake visually irresistible!
Let’s gather these delightful ingredients and dive into creating a delicious London Fog Cake that’s sure to enchant your taste buds.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9×9 inch metal baking pan and grease it generously with butter or cooking spray. Then, line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation ensures that your London Fog Cake will bake evenly and come out perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Grind the Tea and Lavender
In a food processor, combine the Earl Grey tea leaves and culinary lavender. Pulse until both are finely ground, resembling a powdery texture. This process releases their fragrant oils and ensures a smooth infusion throughout the cake. When finished, set the mixture aside to enhance the flavor of your London Fog Cake.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground Earl Grey tea, ground lavender, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and ensures a light texture. Continue mixing until well combined, and then set the dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step incorporates air, which will make your London Fog Cake rise beautifully, creating a tender crumb as it bakes.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the room temperature eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mix, beating well after each addition until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the vanilla bean paste, mixing just until combined. This step enriches the flavor of the batter, ensuring a moist and flavorful cake that reflects the essence of Earl Grey.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with the dry mix, then pour in half the buttermilk, mixing gently until creamy. Repeat this process until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen your London Fog Cake, leading to a denser texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, ensuring it is evenly spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 38-44 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; when it springs back slightly when touched, it’s ready for the next step.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. This allows it to set before transferring. After cooling, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for achieving the right texture in your London Fog Cake.
Step 9: Prepare the Milk Soak
For the milk soak, heat the whole milk in a saucepan over low heat until warm. Add the remaining Earl Grey tea and lavender; steep for 15 minutes to extract their aromas. After steeping, cool the mixture slightly, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. This soak will add moisture and flavor to the cake.
Step 10: Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, use a mixer to cream the cold cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and ground lavender, mixing until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired. This frosting will beautifully complement your London Fog Cake, enhancing its overall richness and flavor.
Step 11: Soak the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, carefully level the top with a knife if necessary. Poke several holes in the surface of the cake using a skewer. Pour the lavender-infused milk soak evenly over the cake, allowing it to absorb the liquid fully. This step ensures your London Fog Cake is deliciously moist and flavorful.
Step 12: Frost and Serve
Generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the soaked cake, smoothing it into an even layer. For a decorative touch, you can sprinkle a bit of lavender on top or add purple food coloring to the frosting if you wish. Slice the London Fog Cake into 16 servings and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures it brings!
Make Ahead Options
These enchanting London Fog Cake components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cake itself up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake and cool it completely as directed. Store the cooled cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moisture. You can also prepare the milk soak in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—just give it a gentle stir before using. When you’re ready to serve, poke holes in the cake and pour the milk soak over it, then frost with your cream cheese mixture. This approach not only saves you valuable time but also ensures your cake is just as delicious as if made fresh!
What to Serve with London Fog Cake
Indulging in a slice of this tea-infused delight opens the door to a world of accompanying flavors that will elevate your dessert experience.
Hot Earl Grey Tea: Enhances the cake’s tea notes while creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings. This classic pairing warms the spirit and complements the floral hints beautifully.
Lavender Lemonade: This refreshing drink mirrors the cake’s floral essence, offering a bright zing that balances the sweetness. The tartness of the lemonade beautifully contrasts with the rich creaminess of the frosting.
Scones with Clotted Cream: A nod to traditional tea time, scones offer a delightful texture that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s moisture. They also invite guests to explore layers of flavor in each bite.
Berry Compote: A sweet and tangy berry sauce adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the cake’s profile. Drizzling compote over each slice introduces a burst of fruitiness alongside the lavender notes.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds an indulgent touch while balancing the richness of the lavender cream cheese frosting. It’s the ideal complement for a light dessert experience.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey can elevate the flavor, giving a natural sweetness that enhances the cake without overpowering its delicate ingredients. This simple addition can make each slice feel extra special.
Nuts or Almonds: Chopped almonds provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the cake’s soft texture. Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts offers a nutty richness, creating a delightful interplay of flavors and textures.
Expert Tips for London Fog Cake
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use ingredients at room temperature for a smoother batter and optimal rise. This helps create a light texture in your London Fog Cake.
Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurement; this prevents a dense cake. An overly packed cup of flour can ruin the delicate nature of this tea-infused dessert.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, compromising your results.
Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allow enough time for the cake to absorb the lavender-infused milk soak. This step is key to achieving that moist, luxurious texture.
Freshness Matters: Check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Using stale leavening agents may hinder the rise, affecting the cake’s overall fluffiness.
How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake
Fridge: Store leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them overnight in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully once again.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cake, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances the delicious lavender notes and makes every bite feel fresh!
London Fog Cake Variations & Substitutions
Customize your cake experience with these delightful twists that enhance flavor and accommodate dietary needs!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for a delightful version that everyone can enjoy. Just make sure the blend is fresh for the best results!
Vegan Option: For a plant-based twist, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. You won’t miss the traditional ingredients at all!
Citrus Zest: Swap out lavender for freshly grated lemon or orange zest to invigorate your cake with bright, citrusy notes. The zesty aroma will fill your kitchen with sunshine!
Chai or Jasmine: Instead of Earl Grey, experiment with chai or jasmine tea to discover a whole new flavor profile. Each tea brings its unique essence, creating a whole new kind of cake magic.
Berry Infusion: Fold in fresh raspberries or blueberries into the batter for added flavor and texture. The tartness from the berries balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cake!
Cardamom Twist: Incorporate ground cardamom to add a subtle warmth and spice to your cake. This exotic flavor will transport your taste buds to far-off lands!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter for a delightful crunch. The added texture makes every bite even more satisfying.
Cream Cheese Swirl: For a fun twist, swirl a bit of the cream cheese frosting into the batter before baking for an extra creamy surprise in each slice. It’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen!
Feeling inspired? Enhance your baking repertoire with other delightful treats like the delicious Carrot Cake Cheesecake or the charming Snickerdoodle Bundt Cake. Happy baking!
London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Earl Grey tea for my London Fog Cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality loose-leaf Earl Grey tea for a bolder flavor. If you’re using tea bags, ensure they are made with natural ingredients and not artificial flavors. You want that lovely, aromatic essence of bergamot to shine through your cake!
What’s the best way to store leftover London Fog Cake?
Once your delightful London Fog Cake is made, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor. Just remember to keep the frosting separate if possible to maintain consistency.
Can I freeze my London Fog Cake?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Why is my cake dense and not fluffy like expected?
Very! A common cause is overmixing the batter after adding the flour. To achieve that light texture, mix gently until just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as stale leavening agents can affect the rise.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, ensure you check the labels on your ingredients, especially for gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Additionally, to make it vegan-friendly, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds and opt for vegan butter.
How do I know when my London Fog Cake is done baking?
The key is to check for doneness around the 38-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready! Additionally, the top should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
Delightful London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9 inch metal baking pan.
- Combine the Earl Grey tea leaves and culinary lavender in a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground tea, ground lavender, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then add the vanilla bean paste.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, mixing gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 38-44 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the milk soak, heat whole milk and steep with remaining Earl Grey tea and lavender for 15 minutes.
- Make the frosting by creaming the cold cream cheese and gradually adding powdered sugar and lavender.
- Once cooled, poke holes in the cake and pour the lavender-infused milk soak over it.
- Frost the cake with cream cheese frosting and enjoy.