Starbucks Recipes

London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat

London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat

This is a cozy, no-fuss version of the London Fog Latte — you’ve probably seen it at Starbucks, but this one’s cheaper, gentler, and you can make it in your pajamas. Warm tea, a touch of vanilla, and frothy milk… it’s the kind of drink that feels like someone putting a blanket around your shoulders without saying a word.

Jump to Recipe

Quick Summary

  • Prep time: 5 mins
  • Cook time: 5 mins
  • Flavor: soft, floral, vanilla-sweet
  • Great for: quiet mornings, messy afternoons, or those nights when everything’s just… a lot

Why I Like This Recipe

I wasn’t even trying to “make a drink,” y’know? I just… needed something to do. I had a weird ache in my chest (not dramatic, just dull and annoying), and I remembered I still had Earl Grey in the back of the cupboard. So I heated some milk, added a splash of vanilla, and boom — it turned into one of those things that just feels like care. Like okay-ness, in liquid form.
I’ve made it a few times since. Especially when the world feels kind of sharp.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 Earl Grey tea bags
  • 1 cup 2% milk (oat milk also works — kinda love it, actually)
  • 1 oz vanilla syrup (or a splash of vanilla extract + sugar, if you’re winging it)

How To Make London Fog Latte

  1. Steep the tea: Boil your water, pour it over the tea bags in a mug, and let it sit for 3–5 minutes. I usually stare at the steam while I’m waiting. Helps. Take out the bags when it’s dark enough for your mood.
  2. Warm the milk: Not boiling, just steamy. You can microwave it or do it in a small pot. If you’ve got a frother, go wild. If not — pour it into a jar, screw on the lid, and shake the hell out of it. Feels weirdly satisfying.
  3. Sweeten it: Stir in the vanilla syrup (or your homemade version) into the tea. Taste it. Add more if the day’s been rough.
  4. Make it nice: Pour the milk into the tea. Spoon the foam on top. Watch it swirl. Honestly, it looks kind of beautiful.
  5. Sip. Breathe: That’s it. Sit somewhere soft. Hold the mug with both hands. Don’t scroll. Just… be for a minute.
London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat

Tips for Success

  • Don’t over-steep the tea or it’ll get kinda bitter (like… well. You know).
  • Frothing milk in a jar actually works. I was shocked.
  • Vanilla syrup is the move, but extract + sugar totally gets the job done.
  • Sprinkle a little lavender on top if you’re feeling ✨extra✨

Storage and Reheating

  • Fridge:
    You can make a double batch and keep the tea + syrup in the fridge. Add milk when you’re ready.
  • Reheat:
    Low heat, stovetop or microwave. Don’t boil it or the milk gets weird. Stir it gently and be kind to it (and yourself).

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use just one tea bag?
    Yep, if you like it lighter. Two makes it more bold and cozy — up to you.
  • Is vanilla extract okay instead of syrup?
    Totally fine. Just add a little sugar or honey too, or it might taste too flat.
  • Can I use almond milk?
    You can. It works, but oat or dairy gives a better foam and flavor.
  • Does it work iced?
    Yes, but it’s more of a spring vibe. Just let everything cool and pour over ice. Still good though.
  • Can I make a big batch?
    Sure. Brew a stronger tea base and store in the fridge. Add milk when you want a cup.

Common Mistakes and How to Dodge Them

  • Over-steeping the tea:
    3–5 minutes is the sweet spot. After that, it gets kinda bitter and bossy.
  • Skipping the foam:
    Even a little makes a difference. Froth it, shake it, whisk it — whatever works.
  • Forgetting the sweetener:
    Without the vanilla (or sugar), it’s just tea and milk. Not the same vibe.
  • Microwaving too hard:
    You want warm, not scorching. Go low and slow.
  • Using flavored Earl Grey with too much citrus:
    Stick with classic Earl Grey. The bergamot is enough on its own.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 194 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 24mg
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Potassium: 255mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 23g
  • Protein: 7g

You Might Also Like:

London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat

Recipe by LuluCourse: DrinksCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy
Servings

1

servings
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

194

kcal

A cozy tea latte with soft vanilla and steamed milk — perfect for quiet nights or post-cry calm-downs.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup water

  • 2 Earl Grey tea bags

  • 1 cup 2% milk or oat milk

  • • 1 oz vanilla syrup

Directions

  • Boil water, steep tea 3–5 mins.
  • Warm milk, froth if possible.
  • Stir vanilla syrup into tea.
  • Pour in milk, top with foam.
  • Sip and chill.

Notes

  • Lavender on top = a little extra peace
  • Can use decaf tea if it’s a nighttime thing
  • • This doesn’t solve anything. But it helps.

You may also like...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *