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There is something endlessly comforting about making a London Fog Tea Latte at home The blend of robust Earl Grey tea perfumed with just a hint of lavender and gently sweetened vanilla milk feels like a cozy blanket in a mug Whether winding down in the evening or needing a gentle midday pick-me-up this homemade version easily rivals your favorite coffee shop treat
The little ritual of pouring and frothing always helps me slow down and savor my break I first made this on a rainy Sunday and now it is my go-to comfort on grey afternoons
Ingredients
- Earl Grey tea bags: Look for high quality loose leaf or pyramid tea for the deepest flavor
- Dried lavender buds: Use culinary grade to ensure a pleasant floral aroma without bitterness
- Whole milk or milk of choice: Rich dairy gives natural sweetness but oat or almond milk are great if you prefer nondairy
- Honey or granulated sugar: Adjust to your taste and go for local honey when possible for extra aroma
- Vanilla extract: Brings out warmth and rounds off the flavors choose pure extract rather than imitation
- Boiling water: Fresh filtered water is best since this is the base of your tea
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tea:
- Steep two Earl Grey tea bags plus two pinches of dried lavender buds in one cup of boiling water for a solid ten minutes This extra time coaxes out bold tea notes and gentle floral hints which are the secret to flavor depth
- Strain and Sweeten:
- Remove the tea bags squeezing them to save all the infusion Remove the lavender buds with a spoon Incorporate honey and vanilla extract thoroughly while the tea is still warm so sweetness disperses evenly
- Heat and Froth the Milk:
- Warm your milk of choice until just hot but not boiling For frothing use a handheld immersion blender right in a wide mouth jar Blend vigorously for one minute to create a creamy foam Alternatively blend in a regular blender for thirty seconds until bubbly and airy
- Assemble the Latte:
- Pour the warm milk mixture over your brewed tea and gently swirl together allowing the flavors to mingle Serve immediately and enjoy while it is still warm and frothy
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Lavender always reminds me of my grandmother who tucked dried buds into our drawers for freshness Adding it to this latte always brings back that gentle floral scent from baking days as a child
Storage Tips
This latte is best fresh but you can brew the tea concentrate ahead and store it covered in the fridge for up to twenty four hours If you want to save leftovers keep the tea and milk separate for best flavor Reheat gently and recombine right before serving for the best texture and aroma
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Earl Grey try any robust black tea and add a small bit of lemon zest to mimic bergamot Lavender is optional but highly recommended For strict vegan versions swap honey for maple syrup and use any plant-based milk Oat milk gives a lovely creamy mouthfeel
Serving Suggestions
London Fog pairs beautifully with a butter cookie a lemon scone or even light shortbread Try dusting a touch of cinnamon or extra lavender on top If serving for guests set out sugar cubes and thin lemon peel twists for a café style touch
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A London Fog tea latte is a small indulgence that brings immense comfort in every sip
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of milk works best for a London Fog latte?
Whole milk provides a creamy texture, but you can use oat, almond, or soy milk based on your preference or dietary needs.
- → How does lavender affect the flavor?
Lavender buds add subtle floral notes that enhance the Earl Grey tea without overpowering its distinct bergamot aroma.
- → Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, granulated sugar, maple syrup, or agave can be used to sweeten the latte to your liking.
- → Is it necessary to use an immersion blender?
No, a regular blender or frother can also create a foamy texture for the milk and tea mixture.
- → How long should the tea and lavender steep?
Allow the Earl Grey and lavender to steep together in boiling water for about 10 minutes for best flavor infusion.