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Iced London Fog Tea Latte Starbucks Recipe [+Tips]

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Ah, the Iced London Fog Tea Latte – a beautifully elegant and refreshing drink that has captured the hearts of tea lovers everywhere, especially those craving something a little more special than your average iced tea. If you’ve ever stepped into a Starbucks and noticed the mysterious, creamy lavender-hued drink on the menu, that’s the London Fog calling your name.

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But what exactly is a London Fog? Traditionally, it’s a hot Earl Grey tea latte sweetened with vanilla syrup and steamed milk. The iced version, however, takes all that comforting goodness and transforms it into a cool, invigorating treat – perfect for warm days or whenever you want that tea-inspired indulgence without the heat.

This recipe blends the aromatic bergamot flavor of Earl Grey, the smooth sweetness of vanilla, the creaminess of milk (or dairy alternatives), and the subtle floral hint of lavender – all coming together in one chilled glass. If you’re ready to recreate that Starbucks magic at home (and trust me, it’s easier than you think), let’s get into the nitty-gritty of ingredients and steps.

Ingredients For Iced London Fog Tea Latte Starbucks Recipe

To nail that Starbucks-level Iced London Fog, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple yet distinctive ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Earl Grey Tea Bags (2 large bags or 3 small bags)

    • The star of the show! Earl Grey’s distinct flavor comes from bergamot oil – a citrusy, floral essence that defines the drink.

  • Hot Water (about 1 cup/240 ml)

    • For steeping your tea and unlocking those fragrant notes.

  • Vanilla Syrup (2-3 tablespoons)

    • Sweetness with a smooth vanilla undertone is key. You can buy this or make your own vanilla syrup at home with sugar, water, and vanilla extract.

  • Milk or Milk Alternative (about 1 cup/240 ml)

    • Dairy milk, oat milk, almond milk, or even coconut milk work wonderfully here. Oat milk is a popular choice for that creamy texture and mild flavor.

  • Lavender Syrup Or Dried Culinary Lavender (optional)

    • This adds the signature floral hint that elevates the drink to something truly special. If you don’t have lavender syrup, a few dried lavender buds steeped with your tea can work in a pinch.

  • Ice Cubes

    • To chill your latte and give it that refreshing vibe.

  • Optional: Sweetener (honey, agave, or simple syrup)

    • Depending on how sweet you like your latte, you can tweak the vanilla syrup amount or add an extra dash of sweetness.
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How To Make Iced London Fog Tea Latte Starbucks?

Ready to channel your inner barista? Follow these steps closely for a perfect glass of iced London Fog:

  1. Steep Your Tea

    • Boil fresh water and pour about one cup (240 ml) over the Earl Grey tea bags in a heatproof cup or teapot.
    • If you’re using dried lavender, add it here as well. Let it steep for 4-5 minutes to get a strong, aromatic brew.

  2. Sweeten The Brew

    • While the tea is still hot, stir in your vanilla syrup (and any additional sweetener if desired). The warmth helps it dissolve evenly.

  3. Cool It Down

    • Let the sweetened tea cool to room temperature, or speed up the process by placing it in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.

  4. Prepare Your Glass

    • Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice cubes – you want it chilled to the max!

  5. Add Milk

    • Pour in your choice of milk over the ice. About one cup (240 ml) gives you a perfect creaminess balance.

  6. Combine

    • Slowly pour the cooled tea over the milk and ice. This layering looks gorgeous and helps mix the flavors gently.

  7. Stir & Serve

    • Give it a gentle stir to blend everything but keep some of that lovely layering effect visible if you like.
    • Optionally garnish with a sprig of lavender or a light dusting of dried lavender petals for that Instagram-worthy final touch!

Expert Tips

Now, let’s sprinkle in some expert barista secrets to elevate your iced London Fog experience:

  • Use Fresh, Quality Tea

    The quality of your Earl Grey will make or break the flavor. Opt for loose leaf or high-quality tea bags for a vibrant, fresh taste.

  • Steep Longer For Stronger Flavor

    Earl Grey’s flavor can be subtle. If you love it bold, steep an extra minute but be cautious of bitterness.

  • Balance Sweetness Carefully

    Starbucks’ vanilla syrup isn’t too sweet, so start with less and add more to taste. You want a smooth vanilla flavor, not sugar overload.

  • Milk Matters

    Oat milk gives a silky, creamy texture without overpowering the tea. Coconut milk adds a subtle tropical twist, while almond milk keeps it light and nutty.

  • Chill Thoroughly

    Don’t rush cooling the tea. Warm tea on ice melts it fast and dilutes the flavor. Patience yields a perfect, crisp latte.

  • Lavender Is Optional But Magic

    If you’re nervous about lavender’s strong flavor, start with a tiny pinch or just a few drops of lavender syrup. It should be a subtle floral whisper, not a shout.

  • Layering Is Key

    For the most beautiful presentation, pour the milk first, then gently add the tea over the back of a spoon.

Recipe Variations

Want to mix it up and keep things exciting? Here are some fun variations to try:

  • London Fog With Honey & Almond Milk

    Swap vanilla syrup for honey and use almond milk for a nuttier, warmer profile.

  • Lavender London Fog Lemonade

    Replace the milk with a splash of lemonade for a floral, citrusy iced tea hybrid.

  • Matcha London Fog

    Substitute Earl Grey tea with matcha powder and keep the vanilla syrup for a vibrant green twist.

  • Chai London Fog

    Use chai tea bags instead of Earl Grey and add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy, cozy version.

  • Vegan-Friendly Version

    Use a plant-based milk (oat or almond), vegan vanilla syrup (or maple syrup), and avoid honey for a fully vegan iced latte.

  • Extra Creamy London Fog

    Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for that indulgent, rich texture.

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Final Words

Making an Iced London Fog Tea Latte at home isn’t just about replicating Starbucks; it’s about crafting a personalized moment of calm, flavor, and refreshment. Whether you’re starting your day, taking a mid-afternoon break, or impressing friends with your barista skills, this drink is a delightful companion.

From the soothing bergamot notes of Earl Grey to the sweet vanilla and subtle floral hints of lavender, each sip offers a layered experience that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, the satisfaction of making your own beautiful iced latte at home? Priceless.

So grab your favorite tea, whip up that vanilla syrup, chill your milk, and get ready to sip on your very own handcrafted Iced London Fog Tea Latte – iced perfection in every glass.

FAQs

What Is An Iced London Fog Tea Latte From Starbucks?

An Iced London Fog Tea Latte is a refreshing beverage made with Earl Grey tea, vanilla syrup, and milk served over ice. At Starbucks, it combines Teavana Earl Grey tea concentrate with vanilla syrup and milk, creating a creamy, subtly floral, and citrusy drink.

What Ingredients Are Needed To Make A Starbucks-style Iced London Fog Tea Latte At Home?

To replicate Starbucks’ Iced London Fog Tea Latte, you’ll need Earl Grey tea bags or concentrate, vanilla syrup, milk (dairy or plant-based), ice, and optionally a splash of lavender or sweet cream for added richness.

What Type Of Tea Does Starbucks Use In Their London Fog Latte?

Starbucks uses Teavana’s Earl Grey tea, which includes black tea infused with bergamot essence and subtle hints of lavender and citrus.

How Do You Brew The Tea For A Homemade Iced London Fog Latte?

Steep 2 Earl Grey tea bags in about 1/2 cup of boiling water for 3-5 minutes. For a stronger flavor, use more tea bags or steep longer. Let it cool before mixing with other ingredients and ice.

What Kind Of Milk Works Best In An Iced London Fog Tea Latte?

Starbucks typically uses 2% milk, but you can use whole milk, skim, or dairy-free alternatives like oat, almond, or soy milk. Oat milk is a popular choice for a creamy, plant-based version.

How Much Vanilla Syrup Should I Use To Mimic The Starbucks Flavor?

Use 1 to 2 tablespoons (or 2 to 4 pumps) of vanilla syrup, depending on your sweetness preference. Starbucks usually uses 3 pumps for a grande (16 oz) iced latte.

Can I Make A Sugar-free Or Healthier Version Of The Iced London Fog Tea Latte?

Yes, you can use sugar-free vanilla syrup or a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or honey. You can also opt for low-fat or unsweetened plant-based milk to reduce calories.

Do I Need An Espresso Machine Or Frother To Make This Drink?

No, an espresso machine isn’t necessary. You can simply brew the tea and mix it with cold milk and syrup. For a frothy texture, you can shake the mixture in a sealed jar or use a handheld milk frother.

What Is The Caffeine Content In A Homemade Iced London Fog Tea Latte?

The caffeine content depends on the tea used. A typical Earl Grey tea bag contains 40-70 mg of caffeine. Using two bags would give you approximately 80-140 mg, similar to a small cup of coffee.

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Can I Prepare An Iced London Fog Tea Latte In Advance?

Yes, you can brew a batch of Earl Grey tea and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Mix with cold milk and vanilla syrup when ready to serve over ice for convenience.

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