London Fog Latte Recipe: Perfect Earl Grey Tea Latte at Home
Indulge in the comforting flavors of a London fog latte, a delightful blend of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and a touch of vanilla syrup. This popular tea latte offers a creamy texture and a fragrant aroma, making it a favorite among tea lovers. In this guide, we will show you how to prepare this cozy beverage in under 10 minutes, bringing the café experience right to your kitchen!
Make Easy London Fog Tea Lattes at Home
Try this creamy and fragrant tea latte with the delicious floral aroma of Earl Grey tea.
London Fog Fun Facts
☕ Origins in Vancouver: Despite its British-sounding name, it is believed that the London fog was actually created in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, in the 1990s.
☕ Pregnancy-Friendly Creation: It is also believed that this London fog drink was invented by Mary Loria, who, during her pregnancy, sought a comforting alternative to coffee due to caffeine sensitivity. She combined Earl Grey tea with steamed milk and vanilla, leading to the creation of the London Fog.
👉 You can read more about Mary Loria on Sprudge
☕ Name Mystery: While the beverage is known as a London Fog, its exact naming origin remains unclear. The "fog" likely refers to the creamy appearance when milk is added to tea, reminiscent of foggy weather.
☕ Regional Variations: In Scotland, a similar beverage is called a "Vancouver Fog," paying homage to its Canadian roots.
☕ Lavender Addition: Some variations of the London Fog include a hint of lavender, enhancing its floral notes and providing a unique twist on the classic recipe.
☕ Starbucks Adoption: The popularity of the London Fog grew significantly after major coffee chains, such as Starbucks, added it to their menus, introducing the drink to a wider audience.
👉 Read more about making Starbucks copycat drinks
☕ Iced Version: For a refreshing twist, the London Fog can be enjoyed iced. Simply brew the tea, let it cool, pour over ice, and add cold milk and vanilla syrup.
☕ Alternative Milks: The London Fog can be customized with various milk alternatives, such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk, catering to different dietary preferences and adding unique flavors.
☕ Caffeine Content: While it contains less caffeine than a traditional coffee latte, the London Fog still provides a gentle energy boost from the black tea base.
☕ DIY Vanilla Syrup: Homemade vanilla syrup can be easily prepared by combining sugar, water, and vanilla extract, allowing for a personalized sweetness level in your London Fog.
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Add to your kitchen, café corner, or tea nook this beautifully designed London Fog Tea Latte recipe wall art. Combining minimalist charm and practical function, this printable piece not only adds a touch of warmth to your décor but also ensures you have the perfect recipe for a comforting, aromatic tea latte at your fingertips.
Download your free London Fog Recipe Wall Art today and enjoy a daily reminder of your favorite soothing tea latte! ☕⬇️
👉 Read more about making tea lattes at home
Ways to Froth Your Milk for Tea Lattes
Adding frothy or steamed milk to your tea provides a luxurious coffee shop feel. Here are some ways to add latte-like bubbles to your chosen milk. Keep in mind that the quality of the milk and the temperature will affect the overall texture of your frothed milk:
🥛 Espresso Machine Steam Wand: Most espresso machines come with a steam wand. To froth or steam milk using this method, heat the milk in a pitcher and then use the steam wand to introduce steam and create froth.
🥛 Automatic Milk Frother: Specialized automatic milk frothers are available that can heat and froth milk with the push of a button. These devices typically have a whisk or frothing wand that agitates the milk to create foam.
🥛 Handheld Frother or Wand: Handheld mini frothers are affordable and easy to use. They usually consist of a small motorized whisk that froths the milk. These are often battery-operated and can be used directly in a cup or mug.
🥛 Mason Jar Method: You can use a mason jar to froth milk. Heat the milk in the jar, seal the lid tightly, and shake vigorously to create froth. Then, remove the lid and microwave the milk to heat it further if needed.
🥛 Stovetop and Whisk: Heat the milk on the stovetop and whisk vigorously to create froth. This method requires a bit more effort but can be effective.
How to Make a London Fog Latte at Home
🥣 INGREDIENTS (serves 2)
▪ 3-4 teaspoons Earl grey loose leaf or 2 tea bags
▪ 1 cup (240ml) water
▪ 2-4 tablespoons vanilla syrup
▪ 2 cups (480ml) milk (dairy or plant based)
▪ Sugar (optional, to taste)
📝 INSTRUCTIONS
1. Boil the water in a kettle or saucepan until it reaches a rolling boil.
2. For best results, use a teapot and warm it first. Pour boiling water into the teapot and swirl for a minute or two before discarding the water.
3. Place the tea bags or loose Earl grey leaves into the teapot. Pour one cup of boiling water over the tea leaves, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes.
4. While the tea is steeping, warm your milk. Optional: Use a milk frother, steamer or whisk the milk to create latte-like bubbles in the warm milk.
5. Strain the brewed tea equally between two cups or mugs using a tea strainer to separate out the loose leaves. And stir in 1-2 tablespoons of vanilla syrup in each. Add extra optional sugar if desired.
6. Pour the warm milk over the tea, dividing it equally between the mugs. Give the lattes a gentle stir and serve hot.
London Fog Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a London Fog Tea Latte?
A London Fog Tea Latte is a warm, creamy drink made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. It has a smooth, floral, and slightly citrusy flavor, thanks to the bergamot oil in the tea.
2. Why is it called a London Fog?
The name "London Fog" is believed to originate from Vancouver, Canada. The drink’s cloudy, milky appearance resembles the foggy weather often associated with London.
3. Can I make a London Fog without vanilla syrup?
Yes! If you prefer a natural sweetness, you can use honey, maple syrup, or a dash of vanilla extract instead of vanilla syrup.
4. What type of milk is best for a London Fog?
Traditionally, whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but you can use oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
👉 Read more about the difference types of milk for tea
5. How do I froth milk without a frother?
If you don’t have a milk frother, you can:
Heat the milk and whisk vigorously.
Use a French press by pumping the plunger up and down.
Shake warm milk in a sealed jar for a few seconds.
6. Can I make an iced London Fog?
Absolutely! Strongly brew the Earl Grey tea, let it cool, then pour it over ice and add cold milk and vanilla syrup for a refreshing version.
7. Is a London Fog caffeinated?
Yes, Earl Grey tea contains caffeine, but less than coffee. If you want a caffeine-free version, use decaf Earl Grey tea.
8. Can I add lavender to my London Fog?
Yes! Adding a pinch of culinary lavender to the tea while it steeps enhances the floral notes and creates a Lavender London Fog.
9. How long should I steep Earl Grey for the best flavor?
For a strong, well-balanced taste, steep Earl Grey tea for 3-5 minutes. Steeping too long can make the tea taste bitter.
10. What are some variations of the London Fog?
Try these fun twists:
Caramel London Fog – Add a drizzle of caramel syrup.
Pumpkin Spice London Fog – Mix in pumpkin spice and a splash of maple syrup.
Chai Fog Latte – Swap Earl Grey for chai tea for a spiced version.
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