Name: Deliciously Moist London Fog Cake with Earl Grey & Lavender
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 44 min
Total time: 104 min
Ingredients: 3 tbsp Earl Grey Tea (loose leaf or 2 tea bags); 2 tbsp Culinary Lavender (dried lavender buds preferred); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (measured accurately); 2 tsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp Salt; 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1.5 cups Granulated White Sugar; 3 large Eggs (room temperature); 2 tsp Vanilla Bean Paste (or vanilla extract); 1 cup Buttermilk (can be homemade); 1 cup Whole Milk (for soaking); 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (for soaking); 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature); 4 cups Powdered Sugar; a few drops Purple Food Coloring (optional)

The aroma of warm lavender and the zesty notes of Earl Grey tea drift through my kitchen, transporting me to a quaint café on a rainy London afternoon. This Moist London Fog Cake is an exquisite tribute to the beloved London Fog tea latte, combining the sophisticated flavors of bergamot with a hint of floral elegance. Not only does this cake offer a delightful treat for the senses, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. The moist texture and rich lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting create an experience that’s both comforting and refreshing, ensuring it will impress your guests at any gathering. Are you ready to explore the delicious world of tea-infused desserts?

Why is London Fog Cake So Special?

Unique Flavor Pairing: Combining Earl Grey tea and lavender creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent, delighting your palate with every bite.
Moist Texture: This cake is soaked in a delicious Earl Grey lavender milk, guaranteeing a superbly moist and tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring a stress-free dessert that delivers elegance, much like the Strawberry Shortcake Cake Roll.
Crown Favorite: Whether it’s a gathering, brunch, or afternoon tea, this cake is bound to impress your guests and become a new favorite. Pair it with a warm cup of tea and experience a little taste of London at home!
Versatile Options: Don’t hesitate to explore variations, like a gluten-free option using Bob’s Red Mill flour for inclusive dessert enjoyment that everyone can savor.

London Fog Cake Ingredients

• Discover the delightful components that make this cake a true treat!

For the Cake
• Earl Grey Tea – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor; use loose leaf or 2 tea bags (approximately 3 tbsp).
• Culinary Lavender – Infuses a fragrant floral note; opt for dried lavender buds for stronger flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s base; measure accurately using a digital scale for the best results.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a fluffy, risen cake.
• Baking Soda – Collaborates with baking powder for an extra lift.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor profile of the cake.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated White Sugar – Sweetens the cake, providing a lovely texture.
• Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; use room temperature eggs for optimal blending.
• Vanilla Bean Paste – Delivers a rich vanilla flavor; you can substitute with vanilla extract if needed.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and a hint of tang; a homemade version works great with whole milk and vinegar or lemon juice.
• Whole Milk – Used in the milk soak, enhancing the flavor infusion.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Injects sweetness and creaminess into the soak.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The creamy base for a rich frosting.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
• Purple Food Coloring – Optional for a fun and festive decoration!

Feel free to indulge your baking spirit with this London Fog Cake and savor the cozy ambiance it brings to your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Make sure to leave some overhang to easily lift the cake out later. This crucial first step ensures an evenly baked London Fog Cake, ready for its citrusy and floral flavors.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a food processor, pulse the Earl Grey tea leaves and culinary lavender to create a finer blend. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the processed mix, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also helps in achieving the desired texture, setting the foundation for your moist cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture turns pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step introduces air into the batter, making your London Fog Cake light and tender. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing, encouraging a beautifully rich base.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the batter. Following the eggs, include the vanilla bean paste; continue mixing until the batter is silky and all components are well blended. This creates a rich, flavorful cake base that complements the Earl Grey and lavender perfectly.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. The batter should be smooth, with no visible flour, setting the stage for a moist London Fog Cake that soaks in the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 38-44 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as the cake should have a golden top and bounce back when lightly pressed—this indicates it’s perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cool and Soak
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Then, prepare the Earl Grey milk soak by combining whole milk and sweetened condensed milk. Poke several holes in the cake’s surface with a skewer and gently drizzle the cooled soak over the top, ensuring it seeps into the cake. This step adds moisture and enhances the flavor profile.

Step 8: Prepare Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy, then gradually add room temperature cream cheese. Mix until smooth, then incorporate powdered sugar, lavender, and additional vanilla until fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This luxurious frosting is crucial for topping your London Fog Cake and adds a decadent finish to every slice.

Step 9: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has fully cooled and absorbed the soak, use a spatula to apply a generous layer of lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting over the top. Smooth it out for an even finish, and feel free to add some purple food coloring if desired for a pop of color. Slice into squares and prepare to savor this delightful treat!

How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving to restore its delightful texture.

Freezer: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It freezes well for up to 2 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring to keep moisture intact.

Frosting Storage: Store any leftover lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting separately in the fridge in an airtight container, and use it within a week for the best flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These London Fog Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. For the best results, prepare the Earl Grey milk soak and drizzle it over the cake just before serving to keep it perfectly infused and deliciously moist. Additionally, you can make the lavender cream cheese frosting up to 3 days ahead; keep it stored in the refrigerator, and give it a quick whip to restore its fluffy texture right before frosting the cake. This way, you’ll have an impressive dessert ready with minimal effort on your serving day!

London Fog Cake Variations & Substitutions

Customize your London Fog Cake with delightful twists that will tantalize your taste buds!

Cupcake Version:
Transform the cake into cupcakes by adjusting the baking time; they’ll bake faster, so keep an eye on them!
Gluten-Free Option:
Swap all-purpose flour for Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 gluten-free flour for a delicious, gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy.
Different Teas:
Explore other tea flavors! Jasmine or chamomile can offer unique floral notes, reinventing this classic dessert.
Lemon Zest Kick:
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a zesty brightness that beautifully complements the Earl Grey.
Lavender-Lemon Glaze:
Top the cake with a simple lavender-lemon glaze instead of frosting for a lighter, refreshing finish.
Chocolate Drizzle:
Indulge by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the frosting for an extra layer of rich flavor. It’s a decadent combination!
Herbal Infusions:
Experiment with herbal teas like mint or lemongrass for a fresh twist that infuses a different layer to this comforting cake.
Nutty Texture:
Incorporate finely chopped almonds or walnuts for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the floral notes.

Embark on a creative journey with your London Fog Cake, and consider pairing it with a cup of Earl Grey to elevate your experience even further! If you’re looking for more delightful desserts, try the Apple Cake Cream or the charming Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls.

Expert Tips for the Best London Fog Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for a smooth batter that yields a fluffy London Fog Cake.
Precision in Measuring Flour: Use a kitchen scale to measure flour accurately. This prevents an overly dense cake that won’t rise properly.
Tea Brewing Method: Brew your Earl Grey tea in hot water for about 5 minutes for maximum flavor infusion. Strong tea will elevate the cake’s aroma!
Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can create a tough texture instead of a moist cake.
Frosting Consistency: If your lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting is too soft, refrigerate it for a while. It should be spreadable yet hold its shape on the London Fog Cake.
Chilling Before Serving: For the best flavor and texture, chill the frosted cake in the fridge for 30-60 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What to Serve with Moist London Fog Cake?

Treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary experience as you explore the perfect pairings for this exquisite dessert.

Earl Grey Tea: The classic companion, it enhances the cake’s flavors while providing a comforting warmth.
Lavender Lemonade: This refreshing drink brings a zesty lift that beautifully complements the floral notes in the cake.
Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries adds a burst of acidity, balancing the sweetness of the cake while offering a refreshing texture.

Indulge in a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, which contrasts the cake’s moistness and adds a delightful creaminess to each bite.

Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it provides a sweet counterpoint and enhances the cake’s rich frosting.
Chilled Chardonnay: A glass of this crisp wine adds a sophisticated touch, elevating the dessert experience to new heights.

Perfectly complement your London Fog Cake and savor the delightful flavors that come to life!

London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of Earl Grey tea should I use for the London Fog Cake?
Absolutely! You can use either loose leaf Earl Grey tea or tea bags for this recipe. I recommend using 2 tea bags, which is approximately 3 tablespoons of loose leaf tea. The quality of the tea greatly influences the flavor, so choose one that you genuinely enjoy!

How should I store my London Fog Cake?
To preserve the moistness of your London Fog Cake, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature to enjoy the optimal flavor and texture!

Can I freeze the London Fog Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful cake! First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to savor it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and enjoy!

How do I know if my cake is baked properly?
A great way to test for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. The cake should also have a golden top and spring back lightly when touched. If you notice any wet batter on the toothpick, return it to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, checking after each interval.

Are there any dietary concerns with using lavender?
While lavender is generally safe for most people, it’s essential to ensure that any lavender you use is culinary-grade. Some individuals may be allergic to lavender or experience sensitivities. If you’re serving guests, it’s a good idea to ask if anyone has allergies related to lavender or any other ingredients in the London Fog Cake.

Can I make a gluten-free version of the London Fog Cake?
Very! To make this recipe gluten-free, I recommend substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour, such as Bob’s Red Mill. This adjustment will allow everyone to enjoy this delicious cake while accommodating dietary needs!