Introduction
London Fog Cake is a delicious dessert that combines the delicate flavors of Earl Grey tea with a creamy vanilla bean frosting. This cake offers a moist and flavorful experience with a subtle hint of bergamot, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this cake will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
– 240 ml whole milk
– 4 Earl Grey tea bags
– 260 g all-purpose flour
– 2 ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 170 g unsalted butter, softened
– 300 g granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 120 ml sour cream
For the Frosting:
– 226 g unsalted butter, softened
– 450 g powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
– ¼ tsp salt
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
To make the London Fog Cake, start by preheating your oven and preparing the cake pans. Infuse whole milk with Earl Grey tea for a unique flavor, then combine it with a rich batter made from butter, sugar, eggs, and dry ingredients. Bake the cakes until they are perfectly moist, and once cooled, frost them with a heavenly mixture of butter, powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla bean paste. This elegant cake is sure to be a hit with its delightful blend of tea and creaminess. Enjoy every slice!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease and line two 20 cm cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2
In a saucepan, heat the whole milk until warm but not boiling. Place the Earl Grey tea bags in the milk and steep for 5-10 minutes. Once well infused, remove the tea bags and allow the milk to cool completely.
Step 3
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy in texture.
Step 5
Add the large eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring to mix well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully incorporated.
Step 6
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the cooled Earl Grey milk. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 7
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops of the batter for an even bake.
Step 8
Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 28-32 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 9
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10
For the frosting, beat the softened unsalted butter in a bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
Step 11
Add the heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, and salt to the frosting mixture. Beat the ingredients until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
Step 12
Once the cakes are completely cool, take one cake layer and spread a layer of the vanilla bean frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top of the first and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 13
Slice the cake into servings and enjoy!
Notes
Temperature Adjustment
Ensure the oven temperature is accurate, as temperature fluctuations can affect baking time.
Cooling Time
Make sure the cakes are entirely cool before applying frosting to prevent melting.
Frosting Consistency
If the frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Storage Recommendations
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Flavor Variations
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a touch of lemon zest or vanilla extract to the cake batter.
Cook techniques
Steeping Tea
To extract the rich flavors of Earl Grey, steep the tea bags in warm milk for 5-10 minutes. Ensure the milk is warm but not boiling, as boiling can affect the flavor and texture.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air, giving the cake a lighter texture.
Alternating Dry and Wet Ingredients
When mixing wet and dry ingredients, alternate adding them to prevent overmixing. Start with dry ingredients, then add the cooled Earl Grey milk, mixing until just combined for a moist cake.
Proper Baking Temperature
Bake the cake at 175°C. This consistent temperature helps achieve even baking and a golden crust.
Testing for Doneness
Check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, indicating the cake is fully baked.
Frosting Technique
When making frosting, beat the butter until smooth before gradually incorporating powdered sugar. This ensures a creamy texture. Add heavy cream and vanilla bean paste for a rich flavor, beating until fluffy.
Layering the Cake
When assembling the cake, spread frosting on the first layer, place the second layer on top, and then frost the sides and top. This technique creates an appealing presentation.
FAQ
Can I use regular tea instead of Earl Grey?
Yes, but the flavor profile will change. Earl Grey adds a distinct bergamot flavor that defines the London Fog Cake.
How do I store the London Fog Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes in advance. Wrap them in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as a substitute for sour cream, maintaining moisture and a similar tang.
How can I make the frosting more flavorful?
To enhance the frosting flavor, you can add additional vanilla bean paste or a splash of the Earl Grey tea used in the cake.
Conclusion
Enjoying a slice of London Fog Cake is like taking a step into a cozy café, where the soothing notes of Earl Grey tea combine with the sweetness of vanilla bean frosting. This cake is versatile enough for any gathering, bringing a delightful charm and sensational flavor profile that delights every palate. Whether it’s for a birthday, tea party, or simply a quiet evening at home, this cake is a must-try.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Earl Grey Cupcakes
Transform the London Fog Cake into delicious cupcakes infused with Earl Grey tea, topped with the same silky vanilla bean frosting for a delightful bite-sized treat.
London Fog Macarons
Create delicate macarons flavored with Earl Grey and a creamy vanilla filling. These dainty treats make for a sophisticated dessert option that pairs perfectly with tea.
Chai-Spiced London Fog Cake
Add a twist to the original recipe by incorporating chai spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, creating a warm and aromatic version of the classic cake.
Lemon Bergamot Pound Cake
Infuse a pound cake with bergamot essence and a hint of lemon zest for a bright and refreshing dessert that still pays homage to its London Fog roots.
Vanilla Bean Earl Grey Panna Cotta
Savor the flavors of Earl Grey and vanilla bean in a creamy panna cotta dessert, elegantly served with a berry coulis for a touch of sweetness.
Earl Grey Infused Scones
Bake fluffy scones infused with Earl Grey tea, perfect for an afternoon tea service. Serve them warm with clotted cream and jam for a traditional treat.