There’s something magical about a warm drink on a cold day. Whether it’s the aroma wafting through your kitchen or the first sip that makes your shoulders relax, certain drinks just hit differently. And if you’re like me, you’ve probably heard the buzz about the London Fog recipe—a classic that’s equal parts cozy and fancy.
Don’t let the name fool you; you don’t need a plane ticket to the UK to enjoy this treat. The beauty of the London Fog is how easy it is to make at home. No fancy gadgets or barista skills are required—just a few simple ingredients, a pinch of patience, and a love for creamy, tea-infused goodness.
What Is a London Fog, Anyway?
For those new to this drink, the London Fog is a tea latte made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, vanilla, and sweetener. Think of it as the tea lover’s answer to a latte, but with a fragrant twist. The Earl Grey gives it that signature floral-citrus flavor (thanks to bergamot), and the vanilla adds just the right hint of sweetness.
Apparently, the name came from someone in Vancouver, Canada, who once described it as feeling like “London fog” in a cup. Isn’t it romantic? But who cares about the history-you’re here for the recipe, so let’s get to it!
Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Brew Happiness
This is one of the most straightforward recipes for making London Fog, but it really benefits from the quality of ingredients. All you need to make your own:
The Essentials
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or loose-leaf Earl Grey tea if you want to feel extra fancy)
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk, oat milk, almond milk—pick your favorite!)
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1–2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (or vanilla syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink)
- 1–2 teaspoons of sweetener (sugar, honey, maple syrup—your call!)
Optional Add-Ons
- Dried lavender (just a pinch for an aromatic, café-style vibe)
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (for a warm, spicy twist)
London Fog recipe: Step-by-Step
1: Brew Your Earl Grey Tea
First, bring the water to a boil. Once the water has boiled, pour it into the cup of your choice and drop in some Earl Grey tea, either in teabag form or loose in an infuser. The infusion must occur for between 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the preferred strength of your tea
Pro tip: Cover your mug with a small plate or lid while steeping to keep the tea nice and hot.
If you’re using loose-leaf tea, about 1 teaspoon of tea leaves will do the trick.
2: Heat and Froth the Milk
While your tea is brewing, grab a small saucepan and heat the milk over medium heat. The goal is to warm it without letting it boil. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles start forming around the edges.
If you have a milk frother, now’s the time to shine. Froth the milk until it’s light and foamy. Don’t have a frother? No problem. Or, if you desire, you can whisk it energetically by hand; otherwise, you could use a hand-held electric whisk. You could just shake the milk in an appropriately-made, heat-proof jar (lid on, of course).
3: Sweeten and Flavor Your Tea
By now, the tea has steeped perfectly. Next, remove the tea bag (or infuser) and stir in the vanilla extract and sweetener of your choice. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste, and adjust to your liking. The sweetness can be completely customized, which makes homemade drinks so great.
4: Combine the Magic
Pour the warmed milk into your cup of tea. If you’ve frothed the milk, be sure to spoon that luxurious foam on top for the full tea-latte experience. Little things make it feel more special.
5: Sip and Enjoy
And that’s it! Your homemade London Fog is ready to be savored. Curl up with a good book, binge your favorite show, or just sit by the window and watch the rain—it’s your moment.
The Secret to a Great London Fog
Making a London Fog recipe might seem straightforward, but a few key details can take it from good to downright amazing.
- Choose Quality Tea: Earl Grey is the star of this drink, so pick a brand that you love. Loose-leaf tea often provides a richer flavor, but a good tea bag works just fine.
- Don’t Skimp on the Milk: The creaminess of the milk is what makes this drink feel indulgent. Whole milk is classic, but non-dairy options like oat milk or coconut milk can add unique flavors.
- Get the Sweetness Right: The level of sweetness is totally up to you. Some folks like it barely sweetened, while others prefer it dessert-like. Taste as you go!
- Add a Twist: Lavender is a popular addition for a reason—it accentuates the floral notes of the tea beautifully. Just be careful not to overdo it, or it might taste soapy.
Why You Should Make This at Home
Sure, you could head to your nearest coffee shop and order a London Fog, but making it at home has its perks:
- It’s Cheaper: Let’s be real—fancy drinks can add up fast. Making it at home saves you money without sacrificing taste.
- It’s Customizable: Love it extra sweet? Prefer almond milk over oat milk? Want to try a touch of caramel syrup? You’re the boss in your own kitchen.
- It’s Cozy: There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a warm drink from scratch. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing!
Variations to Try
How about some fun creative ideas on the old-school London Fog? Here goes:
- Iced London Fog: Perfect for summer! Just pour your iced tea infusion over ice, add cold milk and finish with a drizzle of vanilla syrup. Cool your infusion to room temperature.
- Lavender London Fog: Add a pinch of dried lavender to the tea while it brews. Strain it out before combining with milk.
- Spiced London Fog: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist.
- Chocolate London Fog: Stir in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a mocha-inspired treat.
- Caramel London Fog: Swap the vanilla for caramel syrup, and thank me later.
- Iced Matcha Latte: For a refreshing twist, try an Iced Matcha Latte for a change of pace from your classic tea options.
The History of the London Fog
While the name might suggest British origins, the London Fog actually comes from Canada—specifically Vancouver. The story goes that a woman named Mary Loria created the drink in the 1990s when she was pregnant and couldn’t drink coffee. She asked for Earl Grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla, and the rest is history.
The drink’s name likely comes from its cloudy appearance, reminiscent of London’s famously foggy weather. Whatever the origin, it’s now a beloved classic around the world.
Tips for Perfecting Your London Fog
- Experiment with Ratios: Some people prefer more tea than milk, while others like it creamier. Play around until you find your perfect balance.
- Upgrade Your Vanilla: If you want to go all out, use real vanilla bean or high-quality vanilla paste instead of extract. The flavor is unmatched.
- Prep Ahead: You can steep your tea and sweeten it ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just heat your milk and combine!
Why the London Fog Is So Popular
There’s something undeniably comforting about this drink. It’s warm, fragrant, and soothing—everything you want in a hot beverage. Plus, it’s a little different from your typical coffee or hot chocolate, making it feel special.
FAQs about London Fog recipe
What Is a London Fog Made Of?
A London Fog is a tea latte made with the following ingredients:
- Earl Grey tea: The base of the drink, known for its distinctive bergamot (a citrusy floral flavor).
- Steamed milk: Creamy, frothed milk (dairy or non-dairy) creates the latte-like texture.
- Vanilla: Either vanilla extract or vanilla syrup is added for sweetness and flavor.
- Sweetener (optional): Commonly honey, sugar, or maple syrup to taste.
The combination results in a warm, comforting, slightly sweet drink with a hint of floral and citrus notes from the tea.
What’s in a London Fog at Starbucks?
At Starbucks, a London Fog consists of:
- Earl Grey tea concentrate: Made from their tea blend infused with bergamot and lavender.
- Steamed milk: You can choose your preferred type of milk, including non-dairy options like oat or almond milk.
- Vanilla syrup: Starbucks uses their classic vanilla syrup to add sweetness and accentuates the flavor.
It’s a customizable drink, so you can adjust the sweetness, milk, and tea strength to your liking.
Is London Fog the Same as Earl Grey Latte?
Yes, a London Fog is essentially the same as an Earl Grey Latte. The two names are often used interchangeably. Both refer to a beverage made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla. The term “London Fog” is more popular in North America, while “Earl Grey Latte” is a straightforward description of the drink’s ingredients.
What Is a London Drink of Steamed Milk?
The London drink of steamed milk refers to the London Fog, a tea latte combining Earl Grey tea, vanilla, and steamed milk. Its creamy texture and soothing flavor make it a popular choice for those who want a warm, tea-based alternative to coffee drinks.
Your Turn: Try It Out!
Now you’ve learned how to make a London fog, so why not whip one up? If you’re a tea fanatic or simply looking for yet another little cozy drink to add to your repertoire, then this recipe is the real deal.
And if you find yourself tweaking the recipe—adding lavender, switching up the milk, or even tossing in a splash of Irish cream for a boozy twist—I’d love to hear about it. Leave a comment below with your favorite variation.
So go ahead, brew up some happiness, and enjoy the little moments that come with sipping something warm and delicious.
Cheers to cozy vibes and good tea!
PrintLondon Fog Tea Latte at Home: A Deliciously Cozy Hug in a Mug
The beauty of the London Fog is how easy it is to make at home. No fancy gadgets or barista skills are required—just a few simple ingredients, a pinch of patience, and a love for creamy, tea-infused goodness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: breakfast
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
The Essentials
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or loose-leaf Earl Grey tea if you want to feel extra fancy)
- 1 cup of milk (whole milk, oat milk, almond milk—pick your favorite!)
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1–2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (or vanilla syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink)
- 1–2 teaspoons of sweetener (sugar, honey, maple syrup—your call!)
Optional Add-Ons
- Dried lavender (just a pinch for an aromatic, café-style vibe)
- Cinnamon or nutmeg (for a warm, spicy twist)
Instructions
1: Brew Your Earl Grey Tea
First, bring the water to a boil. Once the water has boiled, pour it into the cup of your choice and drop in some Earl Grey tea, either in teabag form or loose in an infuser. The infusion must occur for between 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the preferred strength of your tea. Pro tip: Cover your mug with a small plate or lid while steeping to keep the tea nice and hot.
If you’re using loose-leaf tea, about 1 teaspoon of tea leaves will do the trick.
2: Heat and Froth the Milk
While your tea is brewing, grab a small saucepan and heat the milk over medium heat. The goal is to warm it without letting it boil. You’ll know it’s ready when tiny bubbles start forming around the edges.
If you have a milk frother, now’s the time to shine. Froth the milk until it’s light and foamy. Don’t have a frother? No problem. Or, if you desire, you can whisk it energetically by hand; otherwise, you could use a hand-held electric whisk. You could just shake the milk in an appropriately-made, heat-proof jar (lid on, of course).
3: Sweeten and Flavor Your Tea
By now, the tea has steeped perfectly. Next, remove the tea bag (or infuser) and stir in the vanilla extract and sweetener of your choice. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste, and adjust to your liking. The sweetness can be completely customized, which makes homemade drinks so great.
4: Combine the Magic
Pour the warmed milk into your cup of tea. If you’ve frothed the milk, be sure to spoon that luxurious foam on top for the full tea-latte experience. Little things make it feel more special.
5: Sip and Enjoy
And that’s it! Your homemade London Fog is ready to be savored. Curl up with a good book, binge your favorite show, or just sit by the window and watch the rain—it’s your moment.
Notes
- Experiment with Ratios: Some people prefer more tea than milk, while others like it creamier. Play around until you find your perfect balance.
- Upgrade Your Vanilla: If you want to go all out, use real vanilla bean or high-quality vanilla paste instead of extract. The flavor is unmatched.
- Prep Ahead: You can steep your tea and sweeten it ahead of time, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just heat your milk and combine!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 100-150 kcal
- Sugar: 10-15 g
- Fat: 4-7 g
- Carbohydrates: 12-18 g
- Protein: 4-6 g
Keywords: London Fog Tea Latte, London Fog
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