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.

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

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