Freshly brewed Earl Grey tea wafts through the air, mingling with delicate hints of lavender, promising a treat that will make your taste buds dance. This London Fog Cake combines soothing herbal flavors with a light, fluffy texture, perfect for an afternoon tea or a cozy gathering with friends.
Jump to:
- <strong>Ingredients for London Fog Cake</strong>
- <strong>How to Make London Fog Cake</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting London Fog Cake Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch to London Fog Cake</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating London Fog Cake</strong>
- FAQs About London Fog Cake
- What is London Fog Cake?
- How can I customize my London Fog Cake?
- How should I store London Fog Cake?
- Can I use regular tea instead of Earl Grey for London Fog Cake?
- Conclusion for London Fog Cake
Imagine slicing into the soft, airy cake, revealing layers soaked in a rich Earl Grey milk. Topped with a luscious lavender cream cheese frosting, this cake is not only a feast for the palate but also a visual delight. You might find it hard to resist taking another slice, so prepare to be charmed!
Why You'll Love This London Fog Cake
- This incredible London Fog Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for London Fog Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious London Fog Cake:
3 tbsp Earl Grey tea – Choose high-quality loose leaf for the best flavor and aroma. Ideal for cake and steeping.
1 tbsp culinary lavender – Use culinary-grade lavender to ensure it’s safe for eating and has the best taste.
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level for accurate measurements; this forms the cake’s structure.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder – This helps the cake rise, creating a light texture.
1/4 tsp baking soda – Balances the acidity in the buttermilk, contributing to fluffiness.
1/2 tsp salt – Enhances all flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
10 tbsp unsalted butter – Use softened butter for a creamy base, adding richness.
1 1/2 cups granulated white sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly, creating that heavenly melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3 eggs – At room temperature, these add structure and moisture to the cake.
1 tbsp vanilla bean paste – For a rich, aromatic flavor; feel free to substitute with vanilla extract.
1 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, enhancing flavor.
1/2 cup whole milk – Makes the batter smooth and pourable, contributing to a tender cake.
2 tbsp Earl Grey tea – Extra for the milk soak, intensifying the flavor throughout.
1/2 tbsp culinary lavender – A bit more for that aromatic soak; the flavor will delight your senses.
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk – Creates a creamy base for the soaked mixture, keeping the cake moist.
1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste – A second dose of vanilla for a more profound flavor.
1 tbsp culinary lavender – Adds a floral note to the frosting that stands out beautifully.
1 cup unsalted butter – Softened, this is the base for the frosting, adding richness.
8 oz cream cheese – Cold, this adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the frosting.
2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth consistency.
1 tsp vanilla bean paste – Enhances flavor in the frosting for that perfect finish.
purple food coloring (optional) – A fun way to visually tie in the lavender theme; use sparingly for desired shade.
How to Make London Fog Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious London Fog Cake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy release.
Step 2: Prepare the Tea and Lavender
Add the Earl Grey tea and lavender to a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Pass the ground mixture through a sieve to separate any large bits that could ruin the smooth texture.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, the processed Earl Grey tea, lavender, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend sets the base for your cake’s flavor profile.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on high speed for about 2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Adding the eggs and vanilla bean paste, mix on medium speed until pale in color and smooth, about 1 minute.
Step 5: Make the Batter
Gradually add in the buttermilk and dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth. Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared pan.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 38-44 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in its pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, lift the cake using the parchment paper and let it cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Earl Grey Milk Soak
In a small saucepan, heat the whole milk over low heat until steaming. Add in the Earl Grey tea and lavender, allowing it to steep for about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a sieve, letting it cool down.
Step 8: Make the Milk Mixture
Mix the infused Earl Grey milk with sweetened condensed milk and a touch of vanilla bean paste. Set aside while you work on the frosting.
Step 9: Create the Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting
Pulse the culinary lavender in a food processor until finely ground, then pass through a sieve. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add the cold cream cheese and mix until smooth, then sift in the powdered sugar. Lastly, add in the lavender and vanilla bean paste, mixing on high speed for 1 minute until fluffy. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a touch of purple food coloring.
Step 10: Soak and Frost the Cake
Once cooled, cut a thin layer off the top of the cake and poke holes into the surface using a wooden stick or the handle of a wooden spoon. Slowly pour the Earl Grey milk mixture over the top to soak in. After allowing the cake to absorb the liquid, frost the top with a thick layer of lavender cream cheese frosting using an offset spatula. Cut the cake into 16 slices and serve.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful London Fog Cake, a perfect blend of tea and cake that will surely impress family and friends!
You Must Know About London Fog Cake
- This showstopping London Fog Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting London Fog Cake Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients for a seamless baking experience. Cream the butter and sugar first, then mix in eggs and buttermilk before combining with the dry ingredients. While the cake bakes, prepare the Earl Grey milk soak and lavender frosting for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch to London Fog Cake
Feel free to swap the culinary lavender for other floral notes, like rose or hibiscus. Add a hint of citrus zest for brightness, or substitute almond extract for a twist on the flavor profile. Customize your frosting by folding in fresh fruit puree for added flair.
Storing & Reheating London Fog Cake
Store leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If reheating, microwave individual slices for about 10 seconds or pop them in a low oven to regain softness without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips for London Fog Cake
- This professional-quality London Fog Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
It was the first gathering at my new home when I served this London Fog Cake, and watching my friends dive in with pure glee was incredibly rewarding. I never expected the compliments about the flavor to be so overwhelming!
FAQs About London Fog Cake
What is London Fog Cake?
London Fog Cake is a delightful dessert inspired by the popular tea beverage, London Fog. This cake typically features flavors of Earl Grey tea, a hint of culinary lavender, and a creamy frosting. The combination results in a moist and fragrant cake that perfectly embodies the essence of its namesake drink. It’s often enjoyed as a sophisticated treat for afternoon tea or special occasions, with its beautiful presentation making it a showstopper at any gathering.
How can I customize my London Fog Cake?
Customization is one of the best parts of baking a London Fog Cake! You can experiment with floral flavors by swapping lavender for rose or hibiscus. For a zesty kick, add some lemon or orange zest to your batter. Consider incorporating different extracts, like almond or coconut, to create a unique flavor profile. You can also enhance the frosting by adding fresh fruit puree for a refreshing twist.
How should I store London Fog Cake?
To keep your London Fog Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it to prevent condensation. If you want to enjoy a slice later, reheat it in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm it in a low oven. This will help restore its soft texture without drying it out.
Can I use regular tea instead of Earl Grey for London Fog Cake?
While Earl Grey tea is the star of this London Fog Cake recipe, you can certainly explore other tea options. Black tea or chai can provide a different twist, although they will change the flavor profile slightly. Just make sure to adjust the tea quantity according to the strength, as floral notes are essential to replicate the London Fog’s character. Experimenting with different teas can lead to deliciously unique outcomes!
Conclusion for London Fog Cake
In conclusion, the London Fog Cake is a delightful, aromatic dessert that captures the enchanting flavors of Earl Grey tea and lavender. Its versatility allows for unique adaptations, making it suitable for any occasion. Through convenient storage methods, you can enjoy this sweet treat for days. So whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging for yourself, the London Fog Cake is sure to impress and delight any palate.
London Fog Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Add the Earl Grey tea and lavender to a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Pass through a sieve to separate any large bits.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, Earl Grey tea, lavender, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for 2 minutes with an electric mixer on high speed.
- Add the eggs and vanilla bean paste, mixing on medium speed until pale in color and smooth, about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the buttermilk and dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until all ingredients are combined and batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 38-44 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 30 minutes, then pull up on the parchment paper to release it from the pan. Let it cool completely on the rack.
- For the Earl Grey milk soak, heat the whole milk in a small saucepan over low heat until steaming. Add the Earl Grey tea and lavender. Steep for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and pass the mixture through a sieve. Allow to cool.
- Mix the Earl Grey milk with sweetened condensed milk and vanilla bean paste. Set aside.
- For the Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting, pulse the culinary lavender in a food processor until finely ground and pass through a sieve.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cold cream cheese and mix until fluffy, about 1 minute.
- Sift in the powdered sugar, then add the lavender and vanilla bean paste. Mix on low speed until combined, then on high speed for 1 minute until fluffy. Add purple food coloring if desired.
- When the cake is completely cooled, cut a thin layer off the top. Poke holes in the top using a wooden stick or the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Slowly pour the Earl Grey milk mixture on top of the cake. Let it absorb into the cake.
- Frost the top of the cake with a thick layer of lavender cream cheese frosting using an offset spatula. Cut into 16 slices and serve.
