As the first chill of fall settles in, I find myself dreaming of cozy treats that warm the heart and fill the home with delightful aromas. Enter the London Fog Cake with Earl Grey Buttercream—an enchanting twist on the classic coffeehouse favorite, transforming the soothing notes of bergamot-infused Earl Grey tea into a moist, layered cake. Not only is this cake easy to whip up, but it also serves as the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering, ensuring there’s a delightful dessert to share. Imagine cutting into this fluffy, creamy wonder, revealing delicate layers, all while it pairs beautifully with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. Are you ready to bake a slice of comfort that’s bound to impress? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe!
Why is London Fog Cake a Must Try?
Cozy Comfort: This London Fog Cake is a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for chilly evenings.
Unique Flavor: Infused with aromatic Earl Grey tea, it elevates your traditional cake experience.
Easy to Make: Even beginners can create a stunning cake with this straightforward recipe.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, it offers a delightful twist that friends and family will rave about.
Versatile Options: Enjoy it as is or get creative—try topping with fresh berries instead of caramel for a light touch. Make sure to pair it with a lovely cup of tea for the ultimate cozy treat!
London Fog Cake Ingredients
• Discover the essential ingredients for this delicious treat!
For the Cake
- Whole Milk – Provides moisture and richness to the cake; substitute with any non-dairy milk if needed.
- Earl Grey Tea (loose leaf) – Infuses the cake with its characteristic bergamot flavor; can substitute with Earl Grey tea bags (2 for milk, plus 1 for batter).
- Cake Flour – Ensures a soft and fine crumb; substitute with all-purpose flour for a denser texture.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Provide leavening for a light and fluffy cake.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and moisture; should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a tender texture.
- Eggs – Provides structure and helps leaven the cake; use room temperature for the best results.
- Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tanginess; replace with yogurt if necessary.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor.
For the Buttercream
- Earl Grey Milk – Made by steeping Earl Grey tea in milk; infuses flavor into both cake and buttercream.
- Powdered Sugar – Used in the buttercream for sweetness and a smooth texture.
For the Salted Caramel Drip (optional)
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds richness to the caramel.
- Salted Caramel – Optional drizzle that adds a complex flavor contrast; omit if preferred.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake with Earl Grey Buttercream
Step 1: Prepare Earl Grey Milk
Begin by bringing 1 cup of whole milk to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add 3 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey tea or 2 tea bags, and let it steep for about 10 minutes. After steeping, strain the mixture to remove the tea leaves, and set the fragrant Earl Grey milk aside for the buttercream.
Step 2: Make Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177ºC) and prepare two 8-inch round cake pans by greasing them with baking spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of ground Earl Grey tea. In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter until creamy, then add 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
To the fluffy butter-sugar mixture, add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate ¾ cup of sour cream and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to this mixture, alternating with the cooled Earl Grey milk, folding gently until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.
Step 4: Bake
Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare Earl Grey Buttercream
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the Earl Grey buttercream. In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. Add 2 tablespoons of the reserved Earl Grey milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth and well blended.
Step 6: Assemble Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, use a serrated knife to level the tops if necessary. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of the Earl Grey buttercream over the top. Add the second layer and apply a thin crumb coat around the entire cake. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
Step 7: Final Frosting and Decoration
After chilling, spread a thick layer of the remaining Earl Grey buttercream over the top and sides of the cake. For an optional decorative touch, prepare the salted caramel drip by melting together 1 cup of sugar and 6 tablespoons of butter, then stirring in ½ cup of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. Let it cool slightly before drizzling over the frosted cake, creating beautiful splashes of flavor that enhance the overall enjoyment of your London Fog Cake.
Expert Tips for London Fog Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and an airy, fluffy London Fog Cake.
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Proper Tea Steeping: Steeping your Earl Grey tea for the right duration is essential; too long can lead to bitterness, affecting your cake’s flavor.
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DIY Cake Flour: If you don’t have cake flour on hand, mix all-purpose flour with cornstarch (2 tbsp less per cup) to achieve the fluffy texture needed for your cake layers.
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Baking Time Alerts: Keep a close eye on your baking time; if using a different pan size, note that it may require adjustment to avoid over-baking.
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Cool, Don’t Rush: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and ensures a beautiful, cohesive finish.
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Versatile Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Substitute the Earl Grey with other flavorful teas for a unique twist on the classic London Fog Cake.
London Fog Cake Variations
Customize your London Fog Cake with these delightful variations that will excite your taste buds and offer endless creativity!
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Chai Twist: Substitute Earl Grey with chai tea for a spiced flavor profile that brings warmth and personality to every bite.
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Berry Delight: Omit the salted caramel and top your cake with fresh berries for a light, refreshing contrast against the creamy buttercream.
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Cupcake Version: Turn this cozy cake into individual cupcakes by filling tins 2/3 full and baking for just 15-18 minutes. Perfect for any gathering!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of cake flour for a lighter alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of bergamot oil to the batter for a more intense bergamot flavor that echoes the classic London Fog drink experience.
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Minty Fresh: Mix in a few drops of peppermint extract for a seasonal twist that sets your cake apart, perfect for the holidays!
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Caramel Flavored: Replace the vanilla in your buttercream with caramel extract, delivering a rich and luscious sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the Earl Grey.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and nutty flavor, creating an irresistible cake experience.
With these variations, your London Fog Cake can cater to many different palates and occasions. If you’re also looking for delightful desserts, why not check out these Holmes Foggy London tea cakes or a splendid Carrot Cake Roll for your next gathering?
What to Serve with London Fog Cake
Indulging in this whimsical London Fog Cake creates the perfect opportunity to elevate your dessert experience and craft a cozy meal.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea enhances the aromatic flavors of the Earl Grey, creating a soothing pairing.
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Coffee: Brew a rich cup of coffee to contrast the cake’s sweetness, echoing the beloved coffeehouse vibe of a classic London Fog drink.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, fluffy potatoes add a creamy texture to your meal, balancing the sweetness of the cake afterward.
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Lemon Zest Scones: These delightful treats add a zesty brightness that beautifully complements the deep notes of bergamot in the cake.
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Honeyed Carrots: Roasting carrots with a touch of honey brings earthy sweetness, creating a delicious flavor harmony that contrasts nicely with the cake.
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Rustic Bread and Cheese Platter: A selection of hearty bread and creamy cheeses creates a savory experience that beautifully enhances the cake’s sweetness when savored together.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the fall flavors by serving this beloved drink alongside your cake, creating a harmonious blend of warm spices and cozy comfort.
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Chocolate Truffles: Rich, decadent truffles provide a luscious farewell to the palate, ensuring a sweet ending that keeps the indulgence alive.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve this warm drink to introduce sweet and tangy notes that elevate the enjoyment of every slice of the London Fog Cake.
Storage Tips for London Fog Cake
Airtight Container: Store the London Fog Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Refrigeration: If you live in a warmer climate, keep the cake in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure it’s covered well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. For a cozy experience, warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Make Ahead Options
These London Fog Cake layers are perfect for make-ahead meal planning! You can prepare the Earl Grey milk and buttercream up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the fridge. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before assembling the cake, as this ensures the buttercream spreads beautifully without clumping. Additionally, you can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours ahead; simply cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain moisture. When you’re ready to serve, level the cake, frost with the creamy buttercream, and drizzle with salted caramel if desired for that extra touch of indulgence—making your London Fog Cake just as delicious as if freshly made!
London Fog Cake: Moist Earl Grey Tea Layers with Silky Vanilla Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right Earl Grey tea for this cake?
Absolutely! For an exceptional flavor, choose high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea with a strong bergamot aroma. If you prefer tea bags, look for brands that use whole leaves rather than dust. The fragrance and taste will shine through in your cake!
What is the best way to store leftover London Fog Cake?
Very good question! To maintain the cake’s moistness, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigeration is ideal, where it will stay fresh for about a week if covered properly.
Can I freeze the London Fog Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy it up to 3 months later! When you’re ready, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently warm it in the microwave for a cozy treat.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Ah, that’s a common concern! If your cake turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using all-purpose flour instead of cake flour. To remedy this, remember to mix lightly after adding dry ingredients, and try using cake flour for a lighter crumb. If your butter isn’t whipped enough, it can also affect the cake’s texture.
Is this recipe safe for pets, like dogs or cats?
Very important to consider! The London Fog Cake contains ingredients like sugar and butter that are not advisable for pets. Additionally, tea is not suitable for them. Always ensure any treats intended for your furry friends are free from potentially harmful ingredients.
What do I do if my salted caramel is too runny?
No worries! If your salted caramel is too runny, start by cooking it a bit longer until it reaches a thicker consistency. Let it cool before using, and if it’s still too thin, you can reheat it slightly and add a touch more sugar. Once properly set, the caramel should drizzle beautifully over your cake for that luxurious finish!
Cozy London Fog Cake with Earl Grey Buttercream Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Earl Grey Milk by bringing 1 cup of whole milk to a gentle boil, adding 3 tablespoons of loose leaf Earl Grey tea, steep for 10 minutes, then strain.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Beat room-temperature butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then sour cream and vanilla, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add dry ingredients and cooled Earl Grey milk, folding gently.
- Divide batter into prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before moving to wire racks.
- For the buttercream, beat unsalted butter until creamy, add powdered sugar gradually, then add Earl Grey milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Assemble the cake by leveling cooled layers, stack with buttercream in between, then apply a crumb coat and chill.
- Frost the chilled cake with a thick layer of buttercream and optionally drizzle with salted caramel.
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