Name: How to Make a London Fog Drink
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup water; 1 bag Earl Grey tea; a pinch culinary lavender (optional); 2 teaspoons honey (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup milk (your favorite milk (oat milk recommended))

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you’ve ever wandered into a cozy café and been swept away by the aromatic blend of Earl Grey tea, velvety milk, and a whisper of vanilla, then you’ve likely experienced the delightful essence of a London Fog drink. This soothing beverage has gained a loving following for its floral notes and creamy texture, making it the perfect companion for chilly days or a quiet afternoon break. The beauty of a London Fog is not just in its comforting taste, but also in its simplicity. In this guide, I will walk you through how to make a London Fog drink at home, so you can enjoy this delightful treat whenever your heart desires.

Why It’s My Go-To

There are countless reasons why the London Fog drink has earned a special place in my heart. For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a café-quality beverage right in your own kitchen. The combination of Earl Grey tea and lavender (if you choose to add it) creates a beautifully aromatic experience that’s both calming and invigorating. Plus, there’s something undeniably indulgent about sipping on a creamy cup of tea that feels like a warm hug in a mug. Whether I’m starting my day or winding down in the evening, this drink never fails to brighten my mood.

What to Buy

To create your own London Fog drink, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1/2 cup water: This will be used to brew the tea.
1 Earl Grey tea bag: The star of the show that imparts the signature flavor.
A pinch of culinary lavender (optional): Adds a delicate floral note, but feel free to skip if you prefer a simpler taste.
2 teaspoons honey (or to taste): A natural sweetener that perfectly complements the tea.
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile with its rich aroma.
1 cup of your favorite milk: I recommend oat milk for its creamy texture, but any milk will work.

Must-Have Equipment

Before diving into the preparation, gather these essential tools:

Teapot or saucepan: For brewing the tea.
Measuring spoons: To ensure the right amount of sweetener and vanilla.
Milk frother or whisk: Optional, but it helps create a frothy milk texture.
Cup or mug: To enjoy your delicious creation.

How to Prepare How to Make a London Fog Drink

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started with the step-by-step process of how to make a London Fog drink.

Step 1: Boil the Water

Start by bringing 1/2 cup of water to a boil in a teapot or saucepan. This water will be used to steep the tea.

Step 2: Steep the Tea

Once the water is boiling, remove it from the heat and add the Earl Grey tea bag. Allow it to steep for about 3-5 minutes, depending on how strong you prefer your tea. If you’re using culinary lavender, this is the time to add a pinch to the water as well.

Step 3: Sweeten the Tea

After steeping, remove the tea bag and add 2 teaspoons of honey (or to taste) to the warm tea. Stir well until the honey is fully dissolved.

Step 4: Add Vanilla

Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, enhancing the flavor of your London Fog.

Step 5: Warm the Milk

In a separate saucepan, heat 1 cup of your chosen milk over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling. If you have a milk frother, you can froth the milk for a creamier texture.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Pour the warm, sweetened tea into your favorite cup or mug. Then, slowly add the warm milk, stirring gently to combine. If you frothed the milk, spoon some of the froth on top for that café-style finish.

Make It Diet-Friendly

If you’re looking to modify your London Fog drink to fit specific dietary needs, here are some tips:

Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Swap honey for a preferred low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: Stick with oat milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free.
Unsweetened Variants: For a lower sugar option, use unsweetened milk and skip the sweetener altogether.
Decaf Option: For those sensitive to caffeine, choose decaffeinated Earl Grey tea.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Even seasoned tea lovers can falter when making a London Fog. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using boiling water directly on the tea bag can lead to bitterness. Always let the water cool slightly before steeping.
Oversteeping the tea can make it too strong or bitter. Stick to the recommended steeping time.
Forgetting to dissolve the honey in warm tea can lead to clumps. Ensure it’s fully mixed for a consistent flavor.
Choosing the wrong milk can alter the texture. Stick to creamy options for the best mouthfeel.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you happen to have leftovers or want to prep ahead, here’s how to store and reheat your London Fog:

Store any leftover London Fog in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm. If the milk has separated, give it a good stir before serving.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my London Fog turned out too bitter?

If your drink is too bitter, it’s likely due to oversteeping the tea. Next time, reduce the steeping time to 3 minutes and ensure you’re using water that’s not boiling hot.

Can I make a larger batch of London Fog?

Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want to make. Just ensure to adjust the steeping time accordingly if using a larger teapot.

What’s a good alternative to Earl Grey tea?

If you’re not a fan of Earl Grey, you can try using other black teas or even herbal teas like chamomile or lavender for a different flavor profile.

Can I use flavored milk in my London Fog?

Yes! Flavored milk, such as vanilla or caramel, can add an interesting twist to your London Fog. Just be mindful of the added sweetness.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you know how to make a London Fog drink, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy every sip. Whether you’re curling up with a good book, catching up with friends, or simply taking a moment for yourself, this drink is sure to enhance your experience. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family – they’ll be asking for your secret recipe in no time!

The joy of making a London Fog drink lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of milk, sweeteners, and even additional flavors like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can customize it to fit your tastes perfectly. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and elegant beverage, remember that you have the power to create this delightful drink right at home. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and most importantly, relish in the moment of sipping your very own homemade London Fog.