You’ve probably had a latte. You may have even dabbled in Chai. But have you met the cozy, dreamy cousin from the tea world—the London Fog Tea Latte? Despite the name, this soothing drink isn’t from the misty streets of the UK—it was actually born in rainy (but fabulous) Vancouver, Canada. Go figure.
While it may not be as famous as its coffee cousins—yet—this creamy Earl Grey creation is quietly taking over mugs and menus around the world. It's the kind of drink that feels like a warm hug in a cup… and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
So, What Exactly Is a London Fog?
In the ever-competitive world of coffee shops, baristas are branching out—and this tea latte is stepping into the spotlight. A London Fog is a velvety mix of Earl Grey tea, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup, sometimes finished with a dash of lavender or a crown of whipped cream (for the drama).
It’s rich, fragrant, and just sweet enough to rival your favourite coffee drinks—but with a gentler buzz. Whether you call it an Earl Grey Tea Latte or a London Fog, it’s become a cult favourite among tea lovers looking for something indulgent but not too fussy.
And the best part? You don’t need a barista badge to make it. Let’s get to the recipe!
How to Make a London Fog at Home
Spoiler: It takes less than 10 minutes. Pajamas optional.
Whether you’re a coffee drinker testing the tea waters, or an Earl Grey devotee ready to level up, this recipe has your name on it.
You’ll need:
16 oz milk (or oat, almond, soy—follow your dairy-free dreams)
1 shot of vanilla syrup (or a splash of vanilla extract)
Loose-leaf Earl Grey or Cream Earl Grey tea
½ tsp dried lavender (optional, but fancy)
Whipped cream (optional, but why not?)
Steps
1. Steep like a pro.
Brew your Earl Grey tea in half the usual water to make a concentrate. Steep for 3–5 minutes. Add lavender if you’re feeling floral.
2. Milk it.
Heat your milk and get frothing! A handheld milk frother works best, but you can also whisk or shake it in a jar. Pro tip: lighter milks make fluffier foam, while creamier ones give you that luscious, thick froth.
3. Mix it up
Strain the tea, pour in the steamed milk, stir in vanilla syrup, and if you're feeling indulgent, top it with whipped cream.
Want it iced? Skip the frothing, use cold milk, and pour it all over ice. Ta-da—an iced London Fog.
Fun London Fog Variations
Once you’ve nailed the classic, try one of these globe-trotting twists:
Manchester Fog – Earl Grey + soy milk + sugar-free vanilla = clean & classy
Dublin Fog – Irish Breakfast tea takes the spotlight
Bangalore Fog – Chai latte with a vanilla glow-up
Tokyo Fog – Matcha + vanilla = green tea magic
Got your own remix? We'd love to hear it.
London Fog FAQs: Spill the (Earl Grey) Tea
How much sugar is in a London Fog?
Depends on the syrup. With regular vanilla syrup, expect around 20–25g per 16 oz. Cut it with sugar-free syrup or go DIY to keep it light.
Is it caffeinated?
Yes, thanks to black tea. Want to sip before bed? Use decaf Earl Grey.
No frother? No problem.
You can heat milk and froth it with a whisk, or shake it in a jar with a lid. Old-school, but effective.
What’s the difference between a London Fog and a Chai Latte?
London Fog = Earl Grey + vanilla.
Chai Latte = spiced black tea (think cinnamon, cloves, ginger). Both are delicious, but totally different moods.
Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk and vegan-friendly syrup. Your latte, your rules.
Up next: How to make loose-leaf tea
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