London Fog Cake

This London Fog Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the floral notes of lavender with the rich flavors of Earl Grey tea. Perfect for tea parties, birthdays, or simply as a sweet treat at home, this cake promises to impress with its soft texture and aromatic essence. The unique soaking method gives it a moistness that is truly irresistible, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The blend of Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender creates a unique taste that is both soothing and delicious.
• Moist Texture: The cake is soaked in Earl Grey lavender milk, ensuring every slice is perfectly moist and flavorful.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for celebrations or casual get-togethers, this cake fits in beautifully at any event.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert with ease.
• Beautiful Presentation: The lavender vanilla bean frosting not only tastes great but also adds an elegant touch to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your London Fog Cake comes out perfectly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pans (9-inch round)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar, ensuring a fluffy batter.
• Baking pans: Ensure even baking; using the right size helps achieve the desired cake height.
• Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly without trapping moisture, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this luscious London Fog Cake:

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
• 2 tbsp (8 g) Earl Grey tea
• 1/2 tbsp (1 g) culinary lavender
• 1/2 cup (150 g) sweetened condensed milk

For the Frosting

• 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 (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.

Step 2: Infuse the Milk

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the buttermilk and whole milk with 2 tablespoons of Earl Grey tea and ½ tablespoon of culinary lavender. Heat just until warm. Remove from heat and let it steep for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla bean paste.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with the infused milk mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until combined.
3. Stir in vanilla bean paste; add purple food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, slice each cake layer in half horizontally if desired for extra layers. Soak each layer lightly with remaining infused milk mixture before frosting between layers and on top.

Enjoy your homemade London Fog Cake!

How to Serve London Fog Cake

Serving London Fog Cake can elevate any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive gathering. This cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its delicate flavors.

With Tea

• Earl Grey Tea: Brew a fresh pot of Earl Grey tea to complement the cake’s flavor profile.
• Herbal Teas: Consider floral herbal teas like chamomile or jasmine for a fragrant pairing.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a sweet and tart contrast.
• Citrus Slices: Orange or lemon slices can add a refreshing zing alongside the rich cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can balance the cake’s sweetness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of vanilla or lavender to the whipped cream for extra flavor.

As Individual Servings

• Mini Cakes: Create mini versions of the London Fog Cake for easier serving at parties.
• Cake Pops: Transform leftover cake into delightful cake pops coated in lavender frosting.

How to Perfect London Fog Cake

To achieve the ultimate London Fog Cake, follow these helpful tips for better texture and flavor.

• Bold Flavor Infusion: Steep Earl Grey tea and culinary lavender longer to intensify their flavors in both the cake and frosting.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy are at room temperature for better emulsification, resulting in a softer cake.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and baking powder helps prevent lumps and ensures an even rise.
• Careful Mixing: Mix until just combined when adding flour; over-mixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is perfectly baked.

Best Side Dishes for London Fog Cake

Pairing side dishes with your London Fog Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing drink that mirrors the floral notes of the cake, making it a perfect match.
2. Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to each slice of cake.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a wonderful counterpart to warm slices of London Fog Cake.
5. Chocolate Ganache Dip: Rich chocolate ganache provides an indulgent dip that complements the floral flavors beautifully.
6. Honey Drizzle: A simple drizzle of honey can enhance both texture and taste, making every bite more enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your London Fog Cake, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delightful outcome.

• Using too much flour – Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to a dry cake. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too long can make the cake tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Not checking oven temperature – An inaccurate oven temperature can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right heat.
• Forgetting to sift dry ingredients – Sifting helps remove lumps and ensures even distribution of baking powder and soda. Always sift before combining with wet ingredients.
• Skipping the soak – The Earl Grey lavender milk soak is essential for moisture and flavor. Don’t skip this step for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing London Fog Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating London Fog Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat one slice at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a covered skillet on low heat for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is London Fog Cake?

London Fog Cake is a soft and moist cake infused with Earl Grey tea and lavender, complemented by a sweet milk soak.

How do I enhance the flavor of my London Fog Cake?

To boost flavor, consider adding more Earl Grey tea or lavender to both the cake batter and frosting.

Can I use other types of tea in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different flavored teas, such as chai or green tea, but adjust steeping times accordingly.

How do I customize my London Fog Cake?

You can add lemon zest or replace some flour with almond flour for a unique twist. Experimenting with flavors can yield delicious results!

How should I serve London Fog Cake?

Serve it plain or topped with fresh berries or edible flowers for an elegant presentation.

Final Thoughts

This London Fog Cake is not only soft and moist but also bursting with delightful flavors from Earl Grey tea and lavender. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with toppings, it’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering!