Name: London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender: Pure Bliss!
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 44 min
Total time: 104 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Earl Grey Tea (Loose leaf or tea bags); 2 tablespoons Culinary Lavender (Culinary-grade); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be substituted with gluten-free baking flour); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Check for freshness); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (For optimal fluffiness); 1 teaspoon Salt (Use fine salt); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Helps create fluffy texture); 3 Eggs (Room temperature); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Bean Paste (Substitute with vanilla extract if needed); 1 cup Buttermilk (Room temperature); 1 cup Whole Milk (Enhances moisture); 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (For richness); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Cold); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon Lavender for Frosting (Finely ground); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional); 1 drop Purple Food Coloring (Optional)

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As I opened the window one breezy afternoon, the delightful aroma of baking wafted through our home, instantly transporting me to a quaint café in London. This is how the London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender started to weave its magic into my life. Combining the invigorating notes of Earl Grey tea with the delicate essence of lavender, this cake is the perfect way to elevate your dessert game. Its moist, airy texture and indulgent lavender-infused frosting make it the ultimate crowd-pleaser, while the easy preparation ensures you can whip it up even on your busiest days. Plus, with gluten-free and vegan options available, there’s no one who can’t indulge in this whimsical treat! Ready to make your friends swoon over a slice? Let’s dive in!

What’s so special about this cake?

Irresistible Flavor: The magic of Earl Grey tea combined with floral lavender notes creates an inviting taste experience that you’ll want to savor.

Easy Adaptations: With gluten-free and vegan options, everyone can enjoy this cake, making it a versatile choice for gatherings.

Quick Preparation: This recipe is designed for busy bakers, allowing you to whip up a stunning dessert without spending all day in the kitchen.

Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this beauty at parties, and watch your guests be amazed by its unique flavor profile and stunning appearance. It pairs perfectly with a hot cup of Earl Grey or a refreshing lavender lemonade!

Memorable Texture: Expect a light, airy, and moist cake that melts in your mouth, leaving everyone craving just one more slice. Dive into this enchanting treat and discover the pure bliss of the London Fog Cake!

London Fog Cake Ingredients

To create your own slice of bliss, here’s what you’ll need to make the magical London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender.

For the Cake

Earl Grey Tea – Infuses the cake with robust flavor; use loose leaf or tea bags (equivalent to 2 tablespoons of loose tea).
Culinary Lavender – Adds enchanting floral notes; ensure it is culinary-grade for safe consumption.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; can be substituted with gluten-free baking flour.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; check for freshness to ensure a good rise.
Baking Soda – Works in conjunction with baking powder for optimal fluffiness.
Salt – Enhances the cake’s flavor; use fine salt for even distribution.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; should be at room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create a fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
Eggs – Provide moisture and richness; use room temperature for the best incorporation.
Vanilla Bean Paste – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vanilla extract if needed.
Buttermilk – Contributes to a moist texture; slightly tangy for a richer taste.

For the Milk Soak

Whole Milk – Enhances moisture in the cake.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and richness to the milk soak consistency.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the frosting for a perfectly creamy texture; ensure it’s cold for proper whipping.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens frosting; adjust to your desired sweetness level.
Lavender for Frosting – Enhances flavor; use finely ground for a smooth mix.
Vanilla Extract – Optional for added sweetness in the frosting.
Purple Food Coloring – Optional for a whimsical aesthetic.

These ingredients come together to create the delightful London Fog Cake, guaranteed to transport you to a cozy café with each bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. This will ensure your London Fog Cake bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly.

Step 2: Grind the Tea and Lavender
In a food processor, combine the Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender, then pulse until they are finely ground. This step releases the aromatic flavors that will infuse your cake with a delightful fragrance. Aim for a texture similar to powdered herbs; this will enhance the overall taste of your London Fog Cake.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground tea, ground lavender, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will provide the structure and rise that the cake needs. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully, setting the stage for your cake’s deliciousness.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, take your room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar, and cream them together in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a beautiful base for your London Fog Cake. This step is crucial for achieving a tender texture in the finished product.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One by one, add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Once all the eggs are incorporated, add in the vanilla bean paste, blending until the mixture is smooth and velvety. The richness of the eggs and flavor from the vanilla is essential to elevate your cake.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Slowly alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. You want to create a light batter that promises a lovely crumb in your London Fog Cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 38-44 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake; it should spring back when lightly pressed, indicating it’s done.

Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 30 minutes. This cooling time is essential for developing the texture before transferring your London Fog Cake to a wire rack. After 30 minutes, gently flip the cake out of the pan and allow it to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Milk Soak
For the luxurious milk soak, heat whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat, then steep with any remaining Earl Grey tea and lavender for 15 minutes. This infusion creates a rich liquid that will soak into your cake, adding moisture and enhancing flavors. After steeping, stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined.

Step 10: Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, cream the cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and ground lavender, mixing until everything is homogenous and fluffy. This frosting, tangy and sweet, will beautifully complement your London Fog Cake. If desired, add in vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 11: Soak the Cake
Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the cooled cake, allowing for better absorption of the milk soak. Carefully pour the warm milk mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for an irresistible moist texture. Let it rest for a few minutes to fully absorb the soak.

Step 12: Frost and Serve
Once the cake has soaked in all the milk, generously frost the top with your lavender cream cheese frosting. Use a spatula for an even application, creating a beautiful presentation. Your London Fog Cake is now ready to delight your guests—a perfect blend of flavors and textures awaits!

What to Serve with London Fog Cake

Transform your delightful cake into a full meal experience with these complementary dishes!

Earl Grey Tea: The classic tea pairing highlights the cake’s flavors, enhancing the aromatic Earl Grey notes for a cozy afternoon treat.
Lavender Lemonade: Refreshing and floral, this drink balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a lovely harmony on your palate while offering a delightful twist.
Berry Compote: A tart and sweet compote, made with fresh berries, brings a pop of color and tanginess to the dish, cutting through the creaminess of the frosting. Serve warm to amplify the flavors!
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and buttery, these smooth potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the light texture of the cake, making for an unexpected but delightful pairing.
Pistachio Ice Cream: This flavor nearly dances with the cake’s floral notes while adding a creamy texture that enhances the overall dessert experience—truly a match made in heaven!
Vanilla Chai: Bold yet soothing, this spiced drink pairs beautifully with the cake’s lavender and tea elements. Sip slowly while enjoying each bite for a cozy moment.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and extra creaminess that beautifully complements the cake’s flavors.

These pairings will make your London Fog Cake experience even more delightful and memorable!

How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake

Fridge: Store leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moistness and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze individual slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply remove the desired slices from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. This ensures the cake remains deliciously moist upon serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently heat it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through, to bring back its fluffy texture.

London Fog Cake Variations

Feel free to tweak this delightful recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs; the possibilities are as enchanting as the cake itself!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour for the same delightful texture.
Vegan Option: Use flaxseed meal or chia seeds instead of eggs, and vegan butter for a plant-based twist everyone will enjoy.
Citrus Twist: Swap lavender for freshly grated lemon or orange zest to add a vibrant twist to the flavor profile.
Tea Variations: Experiment with chai, jasmine, or even hibiscus tea as a unique base flavor that offers its own charm.
Fruit Additions: Incorporate fresh berries such as raspberries or blueberries into the batter for bursts of juicy sweetness and color.
Frosting Variations: Try adding lemon zest or a splash of almond extract to the frosting for an exciting flavor boost.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in slivers of almond or pecans into the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cake.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the frosted cake for an added layer of sweetness and depth.

With these variations, you can create your own signature London Fog Cake that you and your loved ones will adore. While you’re exploring delightful desserts, don’t forget to check out Sausage Sweet Sauce for a savory complement or indulge in a decadent treat with Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Expert Tips for London Fog Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and optimal rise in your London Fog Cake. This ensures better mixing and a lighter texture.
Accurate Flour Measurement: Use a kitchen scale to measure flour; this avoids a dense cake. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off for the best results.
Proper Steeping Time: Allow the milk soak to steep for the full 15 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor that infuses the cake.
Fresh Leavening Agents: Check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda. Outdated leavening agents can lead to a flat cake, so replace them if in doubt.
Vegan Alternatives: For a vegan London Fog Cake, swap eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds and use vegan butter. This keeps the delightful taste while meeting dietary needs.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the delightful London Fog Cake ahead of time is wonderfully convenient for busy home cooks! You can mix the dry ingredients and even cream the butter and sugar up to 24 hours in advance; just store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the milk soak and frosting two days before serving, keeping them in the fridge as well. When you’re ready to finish the cake, simply bake it, soak it with the prepared milk, and frost right before serving for a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious as if made fresh! This way, you can enjoy a homemade treat without any last-minute stress.

London Fog Cake with Earl Grey and Lavender Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for this cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality Earl Grey tea and culinary-grade lavender, as these will elevate your cake to new heights. Freshness is key, especially for baking powder and baking soda—check the expiration dates on the packages. And remember, using room temperature unsalted butter and eggs will significantly improve the texture of your cake.

How should I store my London Fog Cake?
The more the merrier! To keep your leftover London Fog Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain its delightful moisture and flavor, ensuring it tastes just as good on day three.

Can I freeze the cake for later?
Yes, you can! To freeze individual slices of your London Fog Cake, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’re perfect for enjoying later and can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or gently reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer a warm slice.

What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
Very important! If your London Fog Cake doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to using old leavening agents. Always check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Additionally, make sure to avoid overmixing the batter; doing so can lead to a dense cake. If you follow the steps carefully, you’re sure to achieve the perfect rise!

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind when making this cake?
Indeed! For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe has gluten-free and vegan variations. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. For a vegan twist, replace the eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use vegan butter instead of traditional butter. These adjustments ensure that everyone can enjoy this lovely dessert!