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Ever since I first sipped an Iced London Fog on a hot day, it has become my go-to for a chilling yet sophisticated treat. This cozy, classic blend of Earl Grey tea with vanilla and milk gets a refreshing upgrade on ice—ideal for summer afternoons or when you crave something more elegant than your usual iced tea.
I love how simple this is to throw together even when I am rushing out the door. The soft vanilla with floral tea notes makes me feel like I am treating myself every time.
Ingredients
- Earl Grey tea bag: The backbone of the drink. Choose one with pronounced bergamot for best flavor
- Hot water: Blends everything smoothly. Use filtered for the cleanest taste
- Vanilla extract: Brings out cozy sweetness. Look for pure vanilla for rich aroma
- Maple syrup: Hints at caramel flavor and natural sweetness. Choose grade A dark for deepest flavor
- Unsweetened almond milk: For creamy texture without overpowering tea. Try homemade or choose a brand with minimal additives
- Ice: Brings it all together for summer refreshment. Make sure your ice is fresh to avoid freezer odors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Add one cup hot water to a small saucepan along with the vanilla extract and maple syrup. Stir so the sweetness fully dissolves, then bring to a simmer over low heat just until small bubbles appear
- Steep the Tea:
- Remove saucepan from heat. Add the Earl Grey tea bag or your measured loose tea. Allow it to steep for five to seven minutes; this ensures the tea is strong but not bitter
- Cool Completely:
- Take out the tea bag and let the mixture cool to room temperature, or chill in the fridge for speed. Cooling fully prevents melted ice from watering down your drink
- Assemble Your Drink:
- Fill a tall glass right up with fresh ice. Pour your cooled tea base over top so the glass is about two thirds full
- Add the Milk:
- Pour in the almond milk, starting with half a cup and adding more to taste. Gently swirl or stir for that beautiful marbled effect. Taste and add extra maple syrup if you want it sweeter
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The first time I served this to my sister on a lazy summer afternoon, we both ended up curled on the porch just savoring every cold creamy sip. Earl Grey remains my favorite tea for this, but you can experiment with other blends if the mood strikes.
Storage Tips
Any leftover tea base can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Just keep it tightly covered and pour fresh over ice when you are ready to drink. If you mix with milk ahead of time, try to enjoy within twenty-four hours for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in any milk you like, such as oat milk for extra creaminess or coconut milk for a tropical twist. Honey or agave can work in place of maple syrup. If you want extra flavor, try using a lavender-infused syrup to amplify the floral notes.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with a twist of lemon for brightness or top with a splash of whipped coconut cream for a coffee shop feel. It pairs beautifully with shortbread cookies or a slice of simple pound cake for teatime.
Cultural Context
The London Fog originated in Vancouver and is essentially an Earl Grey tea latte with vanilla. Traditionally it is served hot, but the iced version quickly caught on with tea lovers looking for new ways to enjoy this classic blend. The gentle floral notes of bergamot evoke the mood of English tearooms, but the iced take is pure modern comfort.
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Enjoy this chic twist on iced tea for a refreshing, elegant treat any time of day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute any milk of your choice, including dairy or other non-dairy options, for a similar creamy effect.
- → Is loose leaf Earl Grey suitable?
Absolutely. Loose leaf Earl Grey works well—just use a tea infuser or strain after steeping for best results.
- → How can I make this less sweet?
Adjust the maple syrup to your taste or omit it for a less sweet version. Try tasting before adding all the sweetener.
- → Can I make this drink ahead of time?
You can steep and chill the tea ahead, but add ice and milk just before serving for the freshest flavor and texture.
- → What type of ice is best to use?
Cubed or crushed ice both work. Crushed ice creates a slushier texture, while cubes keep the drink cold longer.