“Have you ever stumbled upon a dessert that immediately transports you to a cozy café in London?” The London Fog Cake is one such creation, where rich chocolate cake intertwines with the soothing essence of Earl Grey tea. This layered delight doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it elevates your dessert game with its elegant Earl Grey buttercream and a drizzle of homemade salted caramel, making it perfect for any occasion. With quick prep and impressive presentation, this recipe is designed for both novice and seasoned bakers looking to treat family and friends to something extraordinary. Ready to indulge in a slice that brings together warmth and sophistication? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is London Fog Cake a must-try?
Indulgent, rich flavors: This cake masterfully combines moist chocolate with the subtlety of Earl Grey buttercream, creating a dessert that is both comforting and sophisticated.
Easy to make: With simple steps needed to layer the cake, even novice bakers will feel confident tackling this delicious treat.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, tea party, or just a sweet craving, this cake wows guests and loved ones alike, much like the enchanting Strawberry Cheesecake Dump or the delightful Honeybun Carrot Cake.
Versatile choices: Feel free to swap in different infused teas for unique flavor profiles or explore a seasonal twist with a fruity topping instead of salted caramel.
Impressive presentation: The stunning layers of chocolate and buttercream make for a beautiful display, showcasing your baking prowess effortlessly.
London Fog Cake Ingredients
For the Chocolate Cake
• All-purpose flour – for structure; make sure to sift it for a lighter cake.
• High-quality cocoa powder – use Dutch-process for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Granulated sugar – sweetens the cake and balances the rich cocoa.
• Baking powder – ensures height and lightness in your cake layers.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors in the cake.
• Eggs – provide moisture and richness; room temperature is best for mixing.
• Vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist; you can substitute with melted butter.
• Whole milk – adds creaminess; for a dairy-free option, use almond milk.
• Vanilla extract – for a warm, inviting flavor to complement the chocolate.
For the Earl Grey Buttercream
• Unsalted butter – at room temperature for easy creaming and a creamy texture.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the buttercream; sift before measuring for a smooth finish.
• Heavy cream – adds richness and helps in achieving the desired consistency.
• Earl Grey tea – provides that signature flavor; use loose leaf or strong tea bags for infusion.
For the Salted Caramel Sauce
• Granulated sugar – for creating that rich caramel color.
• Unsalted butter – enhances the caramel’s creaminess; add it in cubes.
• Heavy cream – gives the sauce its silky texture; warm it slightly before adding.
• Sea salt – to create that irresistible sweet and salty contrast; adjust to taste.
The delightful London Fog Cake is waiting for you to bring its flavors to life!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Cake
Step 1: Prepare Chocolate Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. In another bowl, blend the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just incorporated. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Make Earl Grey Buttercream
While the cake layers are cooling, start on the Earl Grey buttercream. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until steaming, then steep the Earl Grey tea for about 15 minutes. Remove the tea leaves and let the cream cool. In a medium bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy and light, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and cooled cream, mixing on low until fluffy and well combined.
Step 3: Prepare Salted Caramel Sauce
Next, focus on the indulgent salted caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Carefully add the cubed butter and warm heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt to taste. Let the caramel cool slightly to thicken before drizzling.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Once the chocolate cake layers are completely cool, level them using a serrated knife if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of Earl Grey buttercream on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing the sides and top for an elegant finish. Finish by drizzling the salted caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the edges.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
For the best flavor and texture, let the assembled London Fog Cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the buttercream and caramel to soften perfectly. Cut into slices and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful pair with this decadent treat. Enjoy the rich layers of chocolate and the aromatic notes of Earl Grey!
Make Ahead Options
The London Fog Cake is a fantastic dessert to make ahead, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the chocolate cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them moist. The Earl Grey buttercream can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week—just give it a quick whip before using to restore its fluffy texture. For the salted caramel sauce, it can be made 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container at room temperature for the best consistency. When you’re ready to assemble, layer the cake with buttercream, frost the exterior, and drizzle with caramel for an easy, impressive final touch!
London Fog Cake Variations
Feel free to play with this delightful recipe and cater it to your taste buds!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk for whole milk in the cake to create a light, dairy-free option that doesn’t compromise flavor.
- Flavored Buttercream: Experiment with different infused teas, like chai or lavender, in the buttercream for an aromatic twist. The smoky notes of chai can elevate the flavor beautifully, while lavender adds a floral touch.
- Berry Compote: Instead of salted caramel, use a homemade berry compote for a fresh and fruity alternative. It’s a vibrant addition that balances out the richness of the chocolate and buttercream.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, while still achieving that moist cake texture. Make sure to check your baking powder for any potential gluten content.
- Extra Chocolate: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the batter for an extra decadent chocolate hit! This twist will make every bite a chocolate lover’s dream.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely ground nuts, like almonds or hazelnuts, into the cake batter for a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
- Spiced Cake: Add warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a comforting twist that complements the Earl Grey beautifully.
- Coffee Infusion: Substitute espresso for part of the water or milk for an energizing coffee kick that enhances the richness of the chocolate.
You can even make it a pairing journey by serving it alongside Strawberry Cheesecake or delightful Nutella Pancakes Blend for a sweets spread that will dazzle.
Expert Tips for London Fog Cake
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter for the buttercream is at room temperature to achieve proper emulsification and a smooth texture.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients for the chocolate cake, mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test your cake layers; they should come out clean. Baking for too long can result in a dry cake.
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Chill the Buttercream: If your Earl Grey buttercream is too thin, let it chill in the refrigerator for a short while before frosting the cake to help it firm up.
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Layering Tips: Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting and sliding off.
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Storage Solutions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days, keeping the London Fog Cake fresh and delicious!
What to Serve with London Fog Cake
Pair this decadent dessert with delightful accompaniments to create a memorable experience for your taste buds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness beautifully contrasts with the cake’s sweet, chocolatey layers. A lovely balance of flavors!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, zesty fruits like strawberries and blueberries refresh the palate, making each bite of the cake even more delightful.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness of vanilla ice cream complements the warm flavors of the cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and taste.
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Earl Grey Tea: To enhance the delicate tea notes in the cake, serve a warm cup of Earl Grey. It’s a comforting pairing that feels elegant.
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Chocolate Ganache: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of rich chocolate ganache adds an indulgent touch, elevating the dessert experience.
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Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These sweet bites add a fun and romantic element to your dessert table, balancing the cake’s richness while adding a touch of elegance.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream provides a refreshing counterpoint to the dense layers of cake, inviting you to indulge even more.
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Coffee: Pairing a slice with a robust cup of coffee enriches the flavors, making your dessert moment feel even more sophisticated.
Each of these options will serve to enhance your delightful experience with a slice of London Fog Cake!
How to Store and Freeze London Fog Cake
Fridge: Store leftover London Fog Cake in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
Freezer: If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to one month.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen cake, transfer it to the fridge overnight to defrost gently, preserving its texture.
Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the revived flavors of your luscious cake!
London Fog Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right Earl Grey tea for the buttercream?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality loose leaf Earl Grey tea or strong tea bags with a prominent aroma of bergamot. This ensures your buttercream is richly flavored. If you’re in a pinch, any well-sourced Earl Grey will do, but avoid generic brands that may lack depth.
How should I store leftovers of the London Fog Cake?
Very simply! Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for about 3-5 days. This helps maintain the moisture and flavor, keeping it ready for late-night cravings or surprise guests!
Can I freeze the London Fog Cake?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply place the wrapped cake in the fridge overnight to thaw, preserving its delicious texture.
What should I do if my buttercream is too thin?
If your buttercream is thinner than desired, don’t fret! Simply continue to mix it for another 5-10 minutes. This will help incorporate air for a fluffier texture. If it remains too warm, chill it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes and then re-mix until fluffy and spreadable.
Are there any allergen concerns with this recipe?
Definitely worth noting! This London Fog Cake contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten), dairy, and eggs. If you have guests with allergies, consider using gluten-free flour, almond milk, or a vegan butter substitute in the buttercream to accommodate dietary needs.
Can I make and store the Earl Grey buttercream ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Earl Grey buttercream up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip briefly before frosting your cake — it’ll be just as fluffy and aromatic!
London Fog Cake - A Decadent Treat with Earl Grey Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt until combined. In another bowl, blend the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until just incorporated. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While the cake layers are cooling, start on the Earl Grey buttercream. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until steaming, then steep the Earl Grey tea for about 15 minutes. Remove the tea leaves and let the cream cool. In a medium bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy and light, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and cooled cream, mixing on low until fluffy and well combined.
- Next, focus on the indulgent salted caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden amber color, about 8-10 minutes. Carefully add the cubed butter and warm heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt to taste. Let the caramel cool slightly to thicken before drizzling.
- Once the chocolate cake layers are completely cool, level them using a serrated knife if necessary. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of Earl Grey buttercream on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining buttercream, smoothing the sides and top for an elegant finish. Finish by drizzling the salted caramel sauce over the cake, allowing it to cascade down the edges.
- For the best flavor and texture, let the assembled London Fog Cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the buttercream and caramel to soften perfectly. Cut into slices and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful pair with this decadent treat.