If you love the comforting flavors of Earl Grey tea and vanilla, you’re in for a treat with this London Fog Cake recipe. Inspired by the popular In Bloom Bakery version, this cake combines fragrant tea-infused layers with a silky vanilla frosting for a truly memorable dessert.
Whether you’re hosting a cozy afternoon tea or just craving a slice of something special, this London Fog Cake will quickly become a favorite. You’ll enjoy the delicate aroma and the perfect balance of sweetness and subtle tea notes in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Infused with Earl Grey tea for a unique and elegant flavor.
- Moist and tender cake layers with a creamy vanilla frosting.
- Perfect for tea parties, special occasions, or everyday indulgence.
- Uses simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Impresses guests with its delicate, bakery-quality taste.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your own London Fog Cake at home. The recipe includes tea-infused cake layers and a smooth vanilla frosting.
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 Earl Grey tea bags
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Vanilla Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- Optional: dried lavender or edible flowers for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
How to Make London Fog Cake – In Bloom Bakery
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Steep the Earl Grey tea bags in 1/2 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove the bags and allow the tea to cool.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the steeped tea to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined, then stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream until smooth and spreadable. Add more cream if needed.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, level the tops if needed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting over it. Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
- Garnish with dried lavender or edible flowers if desired. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the frosting.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality Earl Grey tea for the best flavor intensity and aroma.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Chill the frosted cake before serving for cleaner, easier slices.
- For extra flavor, you can brush the cake layers with a little brewed Earl Grey tea before frosting.
Storage and Reheating
Store your London Fog Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh. Make sure the cake is well covered to avoid drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. To refresh the cake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use loose leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?
Yes, you can substitute loose leaf Earl Grey tea. Use about 2 tablespoons of loose tea steeped in boiling water, then strain before adding to the batter for the same fragrant effect.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or add xanthan gum separately to help with texture.
How do I make sure the cake layers bake evenly?
Use cake strips or wrap the pans with damp cloth strips before baking to ensure even heat distribution. Also, avoid opening the oven door too early during baking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead and keep them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature. Frost the cake the next day for the freshest flavor and texture.
