Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Chasing the delicate balance of tea and cake led me to create this marvel we call London Fog Cake. With the enchanting combination of Earl Grey tea and fragrant lavender, this dessert transports me to cozy afternoons in a quaint café, a world away from fast food chaos. Imagine sinking your fork into a slice that’s not just moist and tender but also infused with a sweet Earl Grey lavender milk soak. As an added indulgence, this cake is adorned with silky vanilla bean cream cheese frosting, making it a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, ensuring you spend more time enjoying and less time in the kitchen. Curious about how to whip up this heavenly treat? Let’s dive in!” Why is London Fog Cake a Must-Try? Decadent Flavors: The unique blend of Earl Grey tea and lavender delivers an enchanting flavor profile that elevates your dessert game like never before. Moist Texture: This cake’s soaking method guarantees every bite is incredibly moist and tender, rivaling even the finest tres leches cakes. Simple Ingredients: With accessible ingredients, even novice bakers can create a stunning dessert that impresses friends and family alike. Quick Prep Time: This recipe is designed for efficiency, allowing you to whip up a fabulous cake without spending hours in the kitchen. Versatile Serving: Pair it with your favorite brewed Earl Grey or serve at brunch; this cake shines in any setting, making it a delightful crowd-pleaser. Gluten-Free Option: Don’t hesitate to cater to everyone! Just swap in a gluten-free baking flour for similar results that everyone can enjoy. London Fog Cake Ingredients • Prepare to create an unforgettable experience with these delightful ingredients that will bring your London Fog Cake to life! For the Cake Earl Grey Tea – The primary flavor component; use loose leaf or cut open tea bags for the best infusion. Culinary Lavender – Adds floral notes; opt for dried lavender for the best flavor and avoid lavender extract. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; remember to spoon and level your flour to ensure proper measurement. Baking Powder – A leavening agent for that fluffy cake you’ll love. Baking Soda – Adds an extra lift for a light and airy texture. Salt – Enhances overall flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully. Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened at room temperature. Granulated White Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; a key ingredient for deliciousness. Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use eggs that are at room temperature for best results. Vanilla Bean Paste – Infuses a robust vanilla flavor; can easily be swapped with vanilla extract if necessary. Buttermilk – Gives moisture and tenderness; substitute with milk and vinegar/lemon juice if needed. For the Milk Soak Whole Milk – The base for your creamy soak that enhances flavor. Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds delightful sweetness and makes the soak richer. For the Frosting Lavender Cream Cheese – Provides richness and fluff; mix with sugar and lavender for a perfect finish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×9-inch light metal baking pan with butter or cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal. This preparation sets the stage for the perfect London Fog Cake. Step 2: Grind the Tea and Lavender In a food processor, pulse together the Earl Grey tea and dried culinary lavender until finely ground, aiming for a powdery texture. Once ground, sift the mixture to retain only the fine particles. This step ensures your London Fog Cake is infused with a smooth, aromatic flavor without any unpleasant texture. Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the ground tea-lavender mixture until well combined. This blend of dry ingredients helps provide structure and an even rise for your cake. Get ready to create a wonderfully aromatic batter! Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a light, tender London Fog Cake. Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla Next, add the room temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this by pouring in the vanilla bean paste and mix until the batter is smooth. This process adds moisture and depth of flavor to your cake, ensuring a delightful eating experience. Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Carefully incorporate the buttermilk into the batter, alternating with the dry ingredient mixture in three additions. Mix on low speed just until combined after each addition. Be cautious not to overmix; a beautifully moist London Fog Cake comes from a gentle mixing approach at this stage. Step 7: Bake the Cake Pour the smooth batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 38-44 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back lightly when touched, indicating it’s ready to come out of the oven. Step 8: Create the Milk Soak While the cake is baking, prepare the milk soak by heating the whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, steep the remaining Earl Grey tea and lavender for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and a splash of vanilla to create a rich, flavorful soak. Step 9: Make the Frosting For the lavender cream cheese frosting, in a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter with cream cheese until fluffy, usually 3-5 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar, along with lavender and vanilla, mixing on low speed until everything is combined and the frosting is light and airy. Set aside for assembly. Step 10: Soak and Frost the Cake Once the cake has cooled completely, gently trim the top to create an even surface. Poke holes all over the top with a skewer or fork, then slowly pour the Earl Grey milk soak over the cake, allowing it to absorb fully. Finish by spreading a generous layer of lavender cream cheese frosting across the top, setting your London Fog Cake up for a delicious reveal. Step 11: Serve and Enjoy Slice your beautifully adorned London Fog Cake and serve it alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea to enhance those wonderful flavors. Each bite of this moist cake, enriched with a lavender cream cheese frosting, promises to transport you to a cozy café. Happy baking! Make Ahead Options These London Fog Cake preparations are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh and moist. The milk soak can also be prepared a day ahead—just refrigerate it after mixing in the sweetened condensed milk. For the lavender cream cheese frosting, make it up to 3 days ahead, storing it in the refrigerator to maintain its fluffy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply soak the cooled cake, frost it, and you’ll have a stunning dessert that tastes just as delightful as if made fresh the same day! How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Allow the cake to reach room temperature before serving for the best texture. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled London Fog Cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: If desired, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm cake, enhancing the flavors of Earl Grey and lavender. Frosting Storage: The lavender cream cheese frosting can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Re-whip before spreading on the cake for a fresh taste. London Fog Cake Variations & Substitutions There are countless ways to tweak this London Fog Cake to suit your taste—let inspiration take the lead as you explore! Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, swap all-purpose flour with Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for a similar texture. Enjoy the same delightful cake without gluten worries! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of whole milk and buttermilk. You’ll still achieve a moist cake, just with a different yet intriguing flavor profile! Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative. Your cake will be just as fluffy and delicious without the animal products. Added Flavors: For a citrus twist, consider adding lemon zest to your batter or a splash of orange juice in the milk soak. A hint of citrus brightens the overall flavor beautifully. Sweetness Levels: Reduce the sugar in both the cake and the frosting by half for a less sweet experience. The cake will still be wonderfully aromatic and moist without overwhelming sweetness. Lavender Substitute: If you’re not a fan of lavender, you can replace it with a touch of dried rose petals or even your favorite herbal tea mix to create a unique flavor profile! Nutty Crunch: For an exciting textural twist, fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, into the batter before baking. This adds a lovely crunch that contrasts with the tender cake. Fruit Infusion: Incorporate unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas to the batter. This adds moisture and subtle sweetness, plus a hint of fruit flavor! For more delightful ideas in your baking journey, don’t miss our extensive collection of cake recipes and explore the world of sweet surprises! Expert Tips for London Fog Cake Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all wet ingredients, like eggs and butter, are at room temperature for optimal emulsion and texture. Proper Flour Measurement: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents over-measuring, which can lead to a dense cake. Sifting is Key: Always sift the ground Earl Grey and lavender after processing to remove any larger particles. This ensures a smooth, infused flavor throughout the London Fog Cake. Light Metal Pan: Use a light-colored metal baking pan for even baking. Dark pans can cause over-baking, affecting the cake’s moist texture. Soaking Patience: Pour the Earl Grey milk soak slowly to allow proper absorption. This step is critical for achieving that incredible moistness. What to Serve with London Fog Cake The delightful aroma of Earl Grey and lavender creates an inviting atmosphere, making it easy to pair this cake with delicious accompaniments. Earl Grey Tea: This classic beverage enhances the floral and citrus notes in the cake, making each bite even more enchanting. Fresh Berries: Sweet strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing contrast to the cake’s rich flavors, creating balance on your plate. Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of airy whipped cream complements the cake’s texture, adding a creamy element without overpowering the delicate flavors. Vanilla Ice Cream: The richness of vanilla ice cream offers a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the fragrant cake, making for a decadent dessert experience. Lavender-infused Lemonade: This refreshing drink echoes the cake’s lavender notes while providing a zesty brightness that elevates the entire meal. Chocolate Ganache: For those who crave a hint of chocolate, a drizzle of rich ganache brings a luxurious finish to the dessert, harmonizing with the Earl Grey elements. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, biscotti makes for a pleasing texture contrast, perfect for nibbling alongside the soft cake with a cup of tea. Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey provides a sweet touch and enhances the earthy flavors, offering a beautifully aromatic detail. London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs What type of Earl Grey tea should I use? Absolutely! For the best flavor infusion in your London Fog Cake, I recommend using loose leaf Earl Grey tea or cutting open tea bags. This allows the aromatic oils and flavors to meld beautifully into the cake. How should I store the cake after baking? Store any leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture and flavor. I suggest letting it come to room temperature before serving, as it enhances the cake’s delightful texture. Can I freeze the London Fog Cake? Yes, you can! To freeze your London Fog Cake, first wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. What should I do if my cake is too dense? If your London Fog Cake turns out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter or incorrect flour measurement. To prevent this in the future, make sure to measure the flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off. Also, mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Absolutely! If you have gluten sensitivities, you can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Additionally, if you’re concerned about allergies, please ensure that the culinary lavender you use is safe for consumption. How can I tell when the cake is fully baked? To check if your London Fog Cake is done, insert a toothpick in the center after 38 minutes of baking. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter. The top should also spring back lightly when touched—these are great signs of doneness! Moist London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender Magic This London Fog Cake combines the soothing flavors of Earl Grey tea and lavender into a moist, delightful dessert perfect for gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 44 minutes minsSoaking Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 19 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: BritishCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake3 tablespoons Earl Grey Tea Loose leaf or cut open tea bags for best infusion.2 tablespoons Culinary Lavender Dried lavender for a richer flavor.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Spoon and level to avoid over-measuring.1 tablespoon Baking Powder Leavening agent for fluffy cake.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Works with baking powder for lightness.1 teaspoon Salt Enhances sweetness and depth of flavors.1 cup Unsalted Butter Softened at room temperature.1.5 cups Granulated White Sugar For sweetness and moisture.3 large Eggs Bring to room temperature before use.1 tablespoon Vanilla Bean Paste Substitute with vanilla extract if needed.1 cup Buttermilk Can be substituted with milk + vinegar or lemon juice.For the Milk Soak1 cup Whole Milk Essential for a luscious soak.1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk Brings sweetness to the soak.For the Lavender Cream Cheese Frosting8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened for easier creaming.2 cups Powdered Sugar Sifted for smoothness.2 tablespoons Lavender Dried lavender for authentic flavor. Equipment OvenFood ProcessorMixing BowlStand Mixer9x9 inch Baking Pan Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan.Grease the pan with unsalted butter and line with parchment paper.Tea and Lavender ProcessingPulse the Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender in a food processor until finely ground.Sift the mixture to separate finer blend from larger bits.Mixing Dry IngredientsWhisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sifted tea-lavender mixture in a bowl.Creaming Butter and SugarCream softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy (3-5 minutes).Add beaten eggs and vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth.Combining IngredientsGradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.Baking the CakePour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 38-44 minutes.Check for doneness with a toothpick in the center.Milk Soak PreparationHeat whole milk and add Earl Grey tea and lavender; steep for 15 minutes.Mix in sweetened condensed milk and a splash of vanilla once cooled.Frosting PreparationCream softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy; incorporate lavender.Soaking and Frosting the CakeTrim the cooled cake top with a serrated knife for flatness.Poke holes and slowly pour the milk soak over the cake.Frost generously with the lavender cream cheese frosting. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure all wet ingredients are at room temperature, and measure flour correctly for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
