London Fog Cake Recipe Easy Steps for Perfect Dessert

Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of Earl Grey tea infused into a tender, moist cake topped with velvety cream cheese frosting. This London Fog Cake is like your favorite latte in dessert form—a perfect blend of sophistication and pure, nostalgic indulgence. The first time I made this cake, I was struck by its delicate balance of flavors: the floral notes of bergamot from the tea, the sweetness of the frosting, and the subtle richness of vanilla. Honestly, it was love at first bite.

It all started on a rainy afternoon when I was craving something cozy and sweet. I thought, “Why not turn my favorite tea into a cake?” The result? A dessert so good, it’s become a staple for birthdays, holiday gatherings, and those days when you just need a pick-me-up. My family couldn’t stop sneaking bites—even before the frosting was fully set! This recipe feels like a warm hug, and trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for special occasions or last-minute cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: Nothing fancy—everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is a showstopper and sure to impress your friends and family.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of Earl Grey tea and cream cheese frosting is a match made in dessert heaven.

This isn’t just a cake; it’s an experience. It has the comforting flavors of a London Fog latte but with a unique twist. The tea-infused milk gives the cake a rich, aromatic flavor, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that ties everything together beautifully. If you’re a fan of tea or just love desserts that are a little bit fancy without being fussy, this one’s for you.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This London Fog Cake uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a dessert that feels luxurious. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Cake:
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) milk (whole milk works best)
• 3 Earl Grey tea bags
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Frosting:
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can use almond milk instead of regular milk, or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to make it vegan-friendly. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan (to steep the tea in milk)
• Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer (for effortless creaming)
• Whisk and spatula
• Two 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper (to line your pans)
• Cooling racks

If you don’t have two cake pans, you can use one and slice the cake in half after baking—it works just as well! Make sure to grease your pans thoroughly to avoid any sticking. A good-quality mixer is a lifesaver for achieving the perfect cream cheese frosting consistency, but you can totally do it by hand if you’re up for a little workout!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the tea-infused milk: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling. Add the Earl Grey tea bags and steep for 10 minutes. Squeeze out the tea bags and let the milk cool to room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
6. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the tea-infused milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
7. Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to cooling racks.
8. Make the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and mix well. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
9. Assemble the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting out with a spatula for a beautiful finish.
10. Optional decoration: Sprinkle crushed Earl Grey tea leaves or edible flowers on top for a stunning presentation.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To make the perfect London Fog Cake, here are some helpful tips:

• Don’t rush the tea infusion: Let the milk steep with the tea bags for at least 10 minutes to ensure a rich flavor. If you don’t, you’ll miss out on the signature Earl Grey taste.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature to achieve a smooth batter.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are combined.
• Test your cake: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean.
• Chill your frosting: If your frosting feels too loose, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before spreading.

Variations & Adaptations

There are endless ways to customize this London Fog Cake to suit your preferences:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use almond milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a hint of citrus zest (orange or lemon) to complement the bergamot flavor.
• Flavor Boost: Mix a little lavender extract into the frosting for a floral note.
• Personal Touch: I once added a layer of lemon curd between the cakes—it was heavenly!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cake is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy experience.

To store, keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying. Pro tip: The flavors of the cake actually deepen after a day or two in the fridge!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cake is a delightful treat, with approximately 350 calories per slice (based on 12 servings). It contains wholesome ingredients like milk and eggs, providing protein and calcium. The Earl Grey tea contributes antioxidants, while the cream cheese frosting adds a satisfying tang. However, if you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting or try a sugar-free alternative.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm, comforting hug, this London Fog Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the answer. Its delicate tea-infused flavor and creamy frosting make every bite a little moment of bliss. I absolutely love how it transforms a simple cup of tea into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to customize it based on your preferences! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—leave a comment below or share your version with me. Let this cake be your go-to treat for cozy evenings or special celebrations. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of tea?

Yes! While Earl Grey is traditional for a London Fog, you can experiment with other teas like chai or lavender for a unique twist.

What’s the best way to get a smooth frosting?

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened before mixing. If lumps persist, beat the frosting for an extra minute or two.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them tightly wrapped in the fridge. Frost them right before serving.

How do I keep my cake from sticking to the pans?

Line the bottom of your pans with parchment paper and grease the sides thoroughly with butter or cooking spray.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a full cake?

Yes, this recipe works beautifully for cupcakes. Simply divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 18-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

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