A London Fog drink is a comforting beverage made from Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup, often enjoyed for its soothing flavor.
A London Fog is a creamy, aromatic tea latte made with Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, vanilla, and a touch of sweetness. This comforting drink originated in Vancouver, Canada, and has become a beloved alternative to coffee-based beverages.
The Origins of the London Fog
The London Fog was invented in the 1990s by Mary Loria, a pregnant woman who frequented Vancouver’s Buckwheat Cafe. While she created the drink, the name “London Fog” came later as the trend spread through cafes across Canada’s West Coast and the Pacific Northwest.
The “fog” in the name refers to the cloudy appearance created by the steamed milk mixing with the dark Earl Grey tea. This drink gained popularity as a gentler alternative to coffee, especially among those who preferred tea’s subtler caffeine boost.
Key Ingredients in a London Fog
Earl Grey Tea
The foundation of any London Fog is Earl Grey tea, known for its distinctive bergamot orange flavor. Some variations use lavender-infused Earl Grey for an extra floral note. For a decaffeinated version, opt for decaf Earl Grey tea bags.
Milk Options
Traditional recipes use whole milk, but many modern versions incorporate alternatives:
- Oat milk (creamy texture)
- Almond milk (light flavor)
- Soy milk (rich foam)
- Coconut milk (tropical twist)
If you’re exploring milk alternatives for drinks, check out our guide to the best dairy-free milk for milkshakes which applies well to tea lattes too.
Sweeteners and Flavorings
The classic London Fog includes:
- Vanilla extract or syrup
- Honey or maple syrup
- Sometimes lavender buds
How to Make a London Fog at Home
Traditional Hot Version
- Steep 1 Earl Grey tea bag in 1/2 cup boiling water for 3-5 minutes
- Heat and froth 1/2 cup milk of choice
- Add 1/4 tsp vanilla extract and sweetener to taste
- Combine all ingredients in a mug
Iced London Fog Variation
For warm weather:
- Brew tea as above and let cool
- Combine with cold milk and vanilla
- Shake with ice or blend for a frothy texture
Equipment Recommendations
While you can make a London Fog with basic kitchen tools, these can enhance your experience:
- Electric kettle for precise water temperature
- Milk frother or immersion blender for creamy foam
- Quality tea infuser for loose-leaf Earl Grey
London Fog vs. Earl Grey Tea Latte
| Feature | London Fog | Earl Grey Latte |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla | Always included | Optional |
| Sweetener | Standard | Optional |
| Milk Texture | Steamed/frothed | Steamed/frothed |
Caffeine Content and Nutrition
A London Fog contains about 40-60mg of caffeine from the Earl Grey tea, significantly less than coffee. Nutrition varies based on milk choice:
- With whole milk: ~150 calories
- With almond milk: ~80 calories
For those interested in other caffeinated beverages, you might enjoy our article on the best coffee makers with frothers.
Creative Variations
Modern twists on the London Fog include:
- London Fog with lavender syrup
- Chai Fog (using chai tea instead of Earl Grey)
- Matcha Fog (green tea version)
- London Fog with a shot of espresso (“Dirty Fog”)
According to Wikipedia, some versions top the drink with cinnamon, nutmeg, or lavender sprinkles.
