This perfect London Fog Cake is a delightful treat that combines the soothing flavors of Earl Grey tea and lavender. With its extra soft and moist texture, this cake is perfect for any occasion—from tea parties to birthdays. The sweet Earl Grey lavender milk soak adds a unique twist, making it reminiscent of a tres leches cake but with a lovely balance. Its silky lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting makes each bite irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender creates a fragrant and delicious cake.
- Moist Texture: The sweet tea milk soak ensures that the cake remains incredibly moist and tender.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for tea parties, celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon snack with friends.
- Impressive Presentation: Frosted with a creamy lavender vanilla bean frosting, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even baking novices can create this stunning dessert.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your London Fog Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pans: These pans provide the perfect shape for layering your London Fog Cake.
- Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your batter is well combined for that light texture.
- Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.
Ingredients
To create this delightful London Fog Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake
- 3 tbsp (12 g) Earl Grey tea
- 1 tbsp (2 g) culinary lavender
- 2 1/4 cups (282 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
For the Soak
- 2 tbsp (8 g) Earl Grey tea
- 1/2 tbsp (1 g) culinary lavender
- 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
For the Frosting
- 1 tbsp (2 g) culinary lavender
- 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
- 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- purple food coloring (optional)
How to Make London Fog Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your round cake pans by greasing them or lining them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Salt,
5. Earl Grey tea,
6. Culinary lavender.
Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter,
2. Granulated sugar.
Mix until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla Bean Paste
Add in:
1. Eggs one at a time,
2. Vanilla bean paste.
Beat until fully incorporated after each addition.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix:
1. Buttermilk,
2. Whole milk.
Gradually add this mixture to your butter-sugar blend while mixing on low speed.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 7: Bake
Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for about 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Cakes
Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 9: Prepare Soak Mix
While cooling, prepare your soak by combining:
1. Sweetened condensed milk,
2. Remaining Earl Grey tea,
3. Remaining culinary lavender,
4. Vanilla bean paste.
Stir well to combine.
Step 10: Soak Cakes
Once cakes are completely cool, poke holes in them using a fork or skewer and generously drizzle with soak mix.
Step 11: Make Frosting
Beat together:
1. Softened unsalted butter,
2. Cold cream cheese,
Once smooth, gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste until creamy and fluffy.
Step 12: Frost Cakes
Frost each layer of cake generously with your prepared frosting and finish decorating as desired.
Enjoy your delightful London Fog Cake!
How to Serve London Fog Cake
Serving your London Fog Cake can be as delightful as baking it. This cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, enhancing its unique flavors of Earl Grey and lavender.
Enjoy It with Tea
- Earl Grey Tea: Complement the cake’s flavor by serving it alongside a warm cup of Earl Grey tea.
- Chamomile Tea: The soothing notes of chamomile create a perfect balance with the cake’s sweetness.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a fresh and tart contrast to the creamy frosting.
- Citrus Slices: Lemon or orange slices brighten up the presentation and enhance flavor.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the floral notes of the cake.
- Lavender Ice Cream: For an extra touch, serve it with lavender-infused ice cream to amplify the cake’s flavor profile.
How to Perfect London Fog Cake
Perfecting your London Fog Cake ensures it turns out soft, moist, and full of flavor. Here are some helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender are fresh for maximum flavor.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Using eggs at room temperature helps them incorporate better, leading to a fluffier cake.
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and other dry ingredients prevents lumps and ensures an even texture in your batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Soak Generously: Allow the cake to soak in the Earl Grey lavender milk thoroughly for enhanced moisture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for London Fog Cake
Pairing side dishes with your London Fog Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing drink that complements the floral notes of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with the rich flavors of the cake.
- Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse contrasts nicely and adds decadence.
- Panna Cotta: A light, creamy dessert that won’t overpower the London Fog Cake’s flavor profile.
- Almond Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti adds a delightful texture contrast when enjoyed alongside the soft cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a London Fog Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to sidestep them.
- Ignoring the tea steeping time: Properly steeping the Earl Grey tea is crucial for flavor. Let it steep for at least 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep it light and airy.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and milk can affect the texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for the best results.
- Skipping the soaking step: This cake benefits from soaking in Earl Grey lavender milk. Don’t skip this step, as it enhances moisture and flavor.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precision. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measure liquid carefully to ensure success.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your London Fog Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep layers separate if possible to maintain freshness.
Freezing London Fog Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating London Fog Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is London Fog Cake?
London Fog Cake is a moist dessert flavored with Earl Grey tea and lavender, featuring a sweet soak that enhances its softness.
How can I customize my London Fog Cake?
You can add lemon zest for brightness or substitute almond extract for vanilla bean paste to change the flavor profile while still keeping that signature taste.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake can be made a day ahead and stored properly. Just soak it on the day you plan to serve for optimal flavor.
Is there an alternative to buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with vinegar or yogurt as a substitute if you don’t have buttermilk on hand.
Final Thoughts
The London Fog Cake is an exquisite fusion of flavors that combines the elegance of Earl Grey tea with aromatic lavender. Its moist texture makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a special celebration. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite flavors or toppings, making it truly yours. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!
London Fog Cake
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of London Fog Cake, a delightful dessert that harmoniously blends Earl Grey tea and lavender into a moist, tender cake. This enchanting treat features a unique Earl Grey lavender milk soak that keeps the cake beautifully soft, reminiscent of traditional tres leches but with a floral twist. Topped with a luscious lavender vanilla bean cream cheese frosting, each slice is sure to impress at any gathering—from tea parties to birthdays. Easy to make and visually stunning, this cake promises a delightful experience for both the baker and the guests.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp (12 g) Earl Grey tea
- 1 tbsp (2 g) culinary lavender
- 2 1/4 cups (282 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated white sugar
- 3 eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk
- 2 tbsp (8 g) Earl Grey tea (for the soak)
- 1/2 tbsp (1 g) culinary lavender (for the soak)
- 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk (for the soak)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste (for the soak)
- 1 tbsp (2 g) culinary lavender (for the frosting)
- 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened (for the frosting)
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold (for the frosting)
- 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar (for the frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste (for the frosting)
- purple food coloring (optional, for the frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, Earl Grey tea, and culinary lavender.
- Cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one by one, followed by vanilla bean paste.
- Combine wet ingredients: buttermilk and whole milk, then mix into the butter-sugar blend.
- Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before soaking them in an Earl Grey lavender milk mixture.
- Prepare frosting by beating butter and cream cheese together; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla bean paste until creamy.
- Frost layers generously and enjoy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use fresh Earl Grey tea for optimal flavor. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation. For added brightness, consider adding lemon zest to the batter.
