Few drinks bring the charm of a rainy afternoon to life quite like a London Fog. But here’s a twist: imagine elevating it with a subtle hint of vanilla bean and a whisper of bergamot that lingers in each sip. It’s not just a warm beverage; it’s a sensory journey that transports you straight to a rainy London afternoon, cozy and slightly mysterious.
What makes this version special is the deliberate layering of flavors—the aromatic black tea, the creamy froth, and that elusive citrusy note—each singing in harmony. I love how you can customize the sweetness and strength to match your mood, turning an ordinary tea latte into something personal and memorable. It’s the perfect comfort companion for chilly mornings or quiet evenings by the window.
WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?
- Enjoys balancing citrus brightness with velvety milk—my favorite flavor duo.
- Nostalgic yet modern—an ode to classic tea traditions with a fresh twist.
- Effortless to make but feels indulgent, like a treat in disguise.
- Satisfies my craving for something warm and floral with just a few ingredients.
- It’s a small luxury I look forward to on busy days or gloomy weather.
AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)
- FORGOT THE TEA BAGS—ended up with watery, flavorless tea; remember to steep properly.
- DUMPED THE FROTH—tipped the milk too fast, scorched it; gently steam for perfect foam.
- OVER-TORCHED THE VANILLA—burned the vanilla syrup, leaving a burnt taste; keep a close eye.
- FORGOT THE CITRUS—missed that hint of bergamot, the drink felt flat; add the zest or drops carefully.
QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY
- When tea is weak, splash in a little extra steeped black tea for richness.
- Patch over burnt vanilla with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Shield milk from over-heating by steaming less and using gentle heat.
- When froth is thin, whip it longer or add a pinch of cornstarch for stability.
- When lacking bergamot, add a few drops of your favorite citrus extract—smells divine.
In the end, this tea latte isn’t just a drink; it’s a little ritual that creates comfort on demand. Perfect for embracing the chill of fall or winter, it helps turn any ordinary day into a cozy escape.
Stacked with layers of aroma and texture, it’s a quiet reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most satisfying. Gather your ingredients, soften the sky outside your window, and indulge in the creamy, citrusy hug of a homemade London Fog.
London Fog Tea Latte
Equipment
- Kettle or pot for boiling water
- Teapot or tea infuser
- Milk steaming pitcher
- Frothing wand
- Mug
Ingredients
- 1 bag black tea bag preferably Earl Grey or bergamot-infused tea
- 1 tsp vanilla bean or vanilla extract for flavoring the milk
- 1 drop bergamot oil or bergamot extract can substitute with zest or bergamot tea
- 1 tbsp vanilla syrup or honey for sweetness, optional
- 1/2 cup milk dairy or plant-based milk
Instructions
- Boil water in a kettle or pot, then pour it over the tea bag in a teapot or cup to steep.
- Allow the tea to steep for about 3-5 minutes until it develops a rich aroma and a deep color.
- While the tea steeping, pour your milk into a steaming pitcher and add vanilla bean seeds or a splash of vanilla extract, along with bergamot oil or extract.
- Steam the milk using a frothing wand until it becomes creamy and velvety, with a light layer of froth on top. You should hear a gentle hissing sound and see the milk expand in volume.
- Remove the steeped tea bag from the cup or teapot after 3-5 minutes, allowing the concentrated flavor to remain.
- Add vanilla syrup or honey to the brewed tea, stirring well to combine and adjust sweetness.
- Pour the steamed milk into the brewed tea slowly to create layers, letting the foam float on top for a creamy crown.
- Gently spoon a little froth on the top to finish the latte, and optionally sprinkle with a bit of vanilla or citrus zest for garnish.
- Enjoy your cozy London Fog tea latte, appreciating the layered aromas and smooth texture with each sip.
Nutrition
Making this London Fog Tea Latte is a soothing act that pairs well with quiet mornings or a break from a hectic day. It’s a gentle reminder that comfort can be crafted with just a few humble ingredients and a little attention.
Every sip offers a wave of warmth and familiarity, perfect for those moments when you need a break or a pause. I hope this recipe becomes part of your cozy routines, a small source of joy in busy times.
