There’s something magical about a cake that combines the comforting flavors of Earl Grey tea with the lightness of whipped cream. The London Fog Cake is just that—a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself after a long week, this cake is a perfect choice. It’s easy to whip up, and the unique flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This London Fog Cake
This London Fog Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something sweet without the fuss. The unique blend of Earl Grey tea adds a sophisticated twist that will impress your friends and family. Plus, the fluffy whipped cream topping makes every bite feel indulgent. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, leaving you more time to enjoy the moment!
Ingredients for London Fog Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your London Fog Cake masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and a light texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that fluffy texture we all love.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Milk: Keeps the cake moist and contributes to its tender crumb.
Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding richness.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the Earl Grey tea.
Earl Grey tea leaves: The star of the show! Finely ground, they infuse the cake with a unique, aromatic flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
Heavy cream: For the whipped topping that adds a luxurious finish to your cake.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream and helps it hold its shape.
Vanilla extract (for whipped cream): Adds a lovely flavor to the topping.
For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter frosting. You can also add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for a zesty twist. Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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How to Make London Fog Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab two 9-inch round cake pans. Grease them with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour. This step is crucial to prevent sticking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a cake that won’t come out of the pan!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The air you incorporate here is what gives your London Fog Cake that delightful texture. Don’t rush it; this step is key to a perfect cake!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully into the batter. Once all the eggs are in, stir in the vanilla extract. The aroma of vanilla will fill your kitchen, making it feel even more inviting. It’s a simple step, but it adds a lot of flavor!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground Earl Grey tea leaves, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour. The Earl Grey tea leaves are what make this cake special, so don’t skip this step! Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps avoid clumps in your batter.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with a third of the dry mix, then add half the milk, and repeat until everything is combined. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. You want a smooth batter, but a few lumps are okay!
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for even baking. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This makes them easier to handle. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential; if you frost them too soon, the whipped cream will melt. Patience is key here!
Step 8: Prepare the Whipped Cream
While the cakes cool, it’s time to whip up the cream. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The whipped cream should be fluffy and hold its shape. It’s the perfect topping for your London Fog Cake!
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top, then gently place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. For a finishing touch, sprinkle some extra ground Earl Grey tea leaves on top. It’s a beautiful way to showcase the flavors!
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
Use fresh Earl Grey tea leaves for the best flavor; stale tea can dull the taste.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a light cake.
Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
For a fun twist, try adding a splash of almond extract to the whipped cream!
Equipment Needed
Two 9-inch round cake pans (or use one 9×13-inch pan for a single-layer cake).
Mixing bowls (a large one for the batter and a medium one for the whipped cream).
Electric mixer (a whisk works too, but it’ll take longer).
Spatula for smoothing the batter and frosting.
Wire rack for cooling the cakes.
Variations
For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich Earl Grey chocolate cake.
Try using chai tea instead of Earl Grey for a spiced flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Add a layer of fresh berries between the cake layers for a burst of fruity flavor.
Incorporate a splash of orange zest into the batter for a citrusy kick that complements the tea.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your London Fog Cake with a cup of Earl Grey tea for a delightful experience.
Serve with fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and flavor.
Garnish with a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
Consider a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Present on a beautiful cake stand to impress your guests!
FAQs about London Fog Cake
What is a London Fog Cake?
A London Fog Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of Earl Grey tea with a light, fluffy cake topped with whipped cream. It’s a unique twist on traditional cake recipes, perfect for tea lovers!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them with whipped cream on the day you plan to serve for the best texture.
What can I substitute for Earl Grey tea leaves?
If you don’t have Earl Grey tea, you can use chai tea for a spiced flavor or even a plain black tea. Just remember, the unique flavor of Earl Grey is what makes this cake special!
How should I store leftover London Fog Cake?
Store any leftover cake in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It’s best enjoyed within a few days, as the whipped cream may start to lose its texture over time.
Can I freeze London Fog Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers without frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge and frost as usual!
Final Thoughts
Creating a London Fog Cake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The aroma of Earl Grey tea wafting through your kitchen, the anticipation of that first slice, and the delight on your loved ones’ faces make it all worthwhile. This cake is a celebration of flavors, a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple weeknight treat, this recipe brings warmth and happiness to your table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade London Fog Cake!
Indulge in this unique London Fog Cake, a delightful dessert infused with the flavors of Earl Grey tea and topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon Earl Grey tea leaves (finely ground)
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground Earl Grey tea leaves, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the whipped cream. In a medium bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top, then place the second cake layer on top.
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining whipped cream. Optionally, sprinkle some extra ground Earl Grey tea leaves on top for garnish.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt in the frosting.
You can also add a layer of lemon curd between the cake layers for a citrusy twist.
