Introduction

Discover the delightful flavors of a Heavenly London Fog Cake, infused with Earl Grey tea and a delicate lavender twist. This moist, aromatic cake combines comforting notes of tea and floral lavender, perfect for an elegant afternoon treat or special occasion.

A two-layer cake slice is shown on a wooden board, each layer is light brown with a soft, moist texture. Between the layers and on top, there is smooth, light lavender-colored frosting with tiny darker specks. The frosting on the top is thick and creamy, slightly dripping over the cake's side. Small purple flower sprigs are placed gently on top of the cake, adding a natural decorative touch. The scene is set against a white marbled texture that gives a clean, bright feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 teaspoons Earl Grey Tea (loose leaf or tea bags)
2 tablespoons Culinary Lavender, dried
2 cups All-Purpose Flour
2 teaspoons Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1 teaspoon Salt, fine
1 cup Unsalted Butter, at room temperature
1.5 cups Granulated White Sugar
4 large Eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste
1 cup Buttermilk
1 cup Whole Milk
1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk
8 ounces Cream Cheese, cold
2 cups Powdered Sugar
1 tablespoon Culinary Lavender, finely ground
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (optional)
1 drop Purple Food Coloring (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9 inch light metal baking pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a food processor, grind the Earl Grey tea and dried lavender together until finely combined.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ground tea and lavender mixture, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a mixer or hand whisk.
Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla bean paste, mixing until smooth after each addition.
Step 6: Gradually alternate adding the buttermilk and the dry ingredients mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing gently to form a creamy batter.
Step 7: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 38 to 44 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: For the milk soak, gently heat whole milk with Earl Grey tea leaves and lavender for 15 minutes to infuse the flavors. Strain the mixture, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
Step 10: Prepare the frosting by beating cold cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, finely ground lavender, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Add a drop of purple food coloring if desired.
Step 11: Once the cake has cooled, level the top and poke holes evenly across the surface using a skewer or fork. Pour the milk soak slowly over the cake, allowing it to absorb fully.
Step 12: Spread the lavender cream cheese frosting evenly over the soaked cake. Slice into 16 portions and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger tea flavor, increase Earl Grey tea to 3 teaspoons or use more tea bags in the soak.
Swap culinary lavender with lavender sugar for a subtle floral note.
If you prefer a lighter frosting, fold whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture before spreading.
Garnish the finished cake with a sprinkle of dried lavender buds for an elegant presentation.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep the frosting fresh. Let it come to room temperature before serving for best taste. Leftover cake can also be frozen wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and refresh frosting if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up of a two-layer slice of cake sitting on a wooden board with a white marbled surface in the background. The bottom and middle layers are light brown, soft, and crumbly cake. Between these, there is a smooth, beige frosting layer with visible tiny specks, matching the top frosting that is spread thickly and slightly dripping at the sides. Small purple lavender flowers are placed on top of the frosting and scattered around the cake on the board. In the blurred background, a white bowl holds more lavender flowers. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use Earl Grey tea bags instead of loose leaf?

Yes, Earl Grey tea bags work well. Just be sure to crush the tea leaves finely after removing them from the bag to incorporate into the cake batter and soak.

Is culinary lavender safe to eat?

Yes, culinary lavender is specially grown and processed for cooking. Use only culinary grade lavender and avoid any decorative or non-food varieties to ensure safety and the best flavor.