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 RecipeQuick 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Sweeten it: Stir in the vanilla syrup (or your homemade version) into the tea. Taste it. Add more if the day’s been rough.
- Make it nice: Pour the milk into the tea. Spoon the foam on top. Watch it swirl. Honestly, it looks kind of beautiful.
- Sip. Breathe: That’s it. Sit somewhere soft. Hold the mug with both hands. Don’t scroll. Just… be for a minute.

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:
- Eggnog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Apple Crisp Macchiato– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Iced Sugar Cookie Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
- Iced Matcha Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
London Fog Latte– Easy Starbucks Copycat
Course: DrinksCuisine: BritishDifficulty: Easy1
servings5
minutes5
minutes194
kcalA 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.