London Fog Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Icing is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the popular London Fog drink, which combines Earl Grey tea and vanilla flavors. This cake is perfect for tea lovers and makes for an elegant dessert suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cake
2/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
3 Earl Grey tea bags (or 2 tablespoons loose leaf Earl Grey tea)
1 cup Earl Grey milk (made by steeping the tea bags in warm milk)
For the Vanilla Buttercream Icing
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2–4 tablespoons heavy cream (to achieve desired consistency)
Method of Preparation
Prepare the Earl Grey Milk: In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of milk and steep the Earl Grey tea bags for about 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags and let the milk cool.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the cooled Earl Grey milk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Allow cakes to cool in pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Vanilla Buttercream Icing: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Add vanilla extract and enough heavy cream to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake: Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of vanilla buttercream on top, then place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with remaining buttercream.
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even results.
Serving Suggestions
This London Fog Cake is perfect on its own or served with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair it with a cup of Earl Grey tea for an extra touch!
Health Benefits of Ingredients
Earl Grey Tea: Contains antioxidants that can help improve heart health.
Butter: Provides healthy fats when consumed in moderation.
Eggs: A good source of protein and essential nutrients.
Summary of Recipe
London Fog Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Icing is a beautifully flavored dessert that combines Earl Grey tea-infused cake layers with creamy vanilla frosting. This recipe is straightforward and results in a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This cake is loved for its unique flavor profile that blends floral notes from Earl Grey tea with rich vanilla sweetness. It’s an elegant dessert that impresses guests while being simple enough for home bakers to create.
Interesting Facts
The London Fog drink originated in Canada and has become popular worldwide as a comforting beverage combining Earl Grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla syrup. This cake pays homage to that beloved drink by transforming its flavors into a delightful dessert form.
In summary, London Fog Cake with Vanilla Buttercream Icing is not only delicious but also brings warmth and comfort to any gathering—perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying at home!
