There’s something beautifully comforting about a slice of cake paired with a warm cup of tea. During one particularly rainy afternoon, longing for the cozy vibes of a coffee shop but stuck at home, I decided to create my own comfort. Inspired by the elegant flavors of Earl Grey tea and the rich, fluffy texture of a classic sponge, I conjured the notion of a London Fog cake. This delightful cake not only captures the essence of that soothing tea but also fills the kitchen with an aroma that transports you to a snug café, no matter where you are.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 15 minutes
- Active Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (includes cooling time)
- Portion Size: Serves 8
- Complexity: Moderate
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 360
- Protein: 4g
- Carbs: 38g
- Fats: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why You’ll Love This London Fog Cake
Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of fluffy cake that offers the unmistakable flavors of bergamot and cream, reminiscent of your favorite London Fog latte. Each bite is a testament to the beauty of simplicity—just a few quality ingredients come together to create a cake that feels indulgent yet wholesome. The light and airy texture pairs splendidly with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or a delightful personal treat. Whether enjoyed at afternoon tea or as a sweet ending to dinner, this cake provides a comforting embrace with every bite.
The Complete Cooking Journey
With its roots in the classic British tea experience, this London Fog Cake is a delicious adventure from start to finish. I love how the process begins with butter and sugar coming together, a simple act that transforms two humble ingredients into something magical. The addition of brewed Earl Grey tea infuses the cake with a fragrant layer of flavor that dances harmoniously with the whispers of vanilla and lemon zest.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup brewed Earl Grey tea, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake slides out easily after baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the butter, leading to a light texture in the finished cake.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs into the mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This technique helps to build a lovely custardy consistency that’s essential for your cake.
Step 4: Add Flavorful Components
Stir in the vanilla extract and cooled Earl Grey tea. The aroma will invoke a sense of elegance that’s simply irresistible.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Pay attention to the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Step 7: Cool Completely
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Patience is key as cooling ensures easy frosting and a better texture when sliced.
Step 8: Whip the Cream
In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon zest until soft peaks form. This fluffy topping adds both sweetness and a zestful twist.
Step 9: Frost and Serve
Frost the cooled cake with the whipped cream and serve it up. Perhaps enjoy it with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea for the full experience!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cake shines on its own but could also be dressed up with fresh berries for a pop of color and acidity. Consider pairing it with a pot of Earl Grey tea for a quintessentially British experience or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for delicious emergency desserts; just remember to wrap them well!
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Tip on moisture: If your cake tends to dry out, consider adding a little more cold brewed tea or even a splash of milk.
- Egg Temperature: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly into the batter.
- Flavor boost: For a more intense flavor, steep the Earl Grey tea longer before cooling.
- Don’t skip the zest! The lemon zest brightens up the flavors beautifully, so don’t leave it out.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to experiment! Consider infusing your whipped cream with a hint of lavender or tossing in some chocolate chips to the batter for a twist on the classic. You can also swap the lemon zest for orange or even use different flavored teas like chai for a new taste adventure.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- Can I use a different type of tea? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbal or black teas—you’ll still create a fab cake.
- What should I do if I don’t have heavy cream? You can substitute it with a mixture of milk and butter, or use whipped topping if you prefer an easier option.
- Is it okay to use cold eggs? It’s best to bring eggs to room temperature, but if you forget, it’s not a disaster—just mix them a bit longer!
- What can I do if my cake sinks? This can happen from over-mixing or if it’s undercooked. Always check for doneness and mix gently!
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes! It keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for prepping ahead for gatherings.
Wrapping Up
As you try your hand at this London Fog Cake, remember that it’s about the journey as much as the destination. Each step is an invitation to engage more meaningfully with your ingredients and own sense of taste. This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also envelops you in the cozy spirit of tea time. So, put on your apron, and let’s bake a cake that brings warmth to your home and joy to your gatherings. Dive into this delightful adventure and enjoy every flavorful moment!
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London Fog Cake
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting cake infused with the flavors of Earl Grey tea, perfect for afternoon tea or a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup brewed Earl Grey tea, cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and cooled Earl Grey tea.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and lemon zest until soft peaks form.
- Frost the cooled cake with the whipped cream and serve.
Notes
For best results, ensure your eggs are at room temperature and do not skip the lemon zest for flavor enhancement.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
