Cozy Cuppa: How to Make a London Fog Drink
Maryna Gray
• October 19, 2021 — last updated January 23, 2026
Fun Fact: The London Fog was not invented in London! Instead, it was invented in Vancouver, Canada, by a pregnant woman named Mary Loria. Because she was pregnant and abstaining from coffee, she requested an alternative at her neighborhood coffee shop, the Buckwheat Cafe. There, the baristas concocted a tea-based drink, coining it the London Fog.
Quick London Fog Recipe
- Tea: 1 Earl Grey tea bag (or 1 tablespoon loose leaf)
- Water: 8 oz
- Milk: 4–6 oz, steamed or frothed
- Vanilla: 1–2 teaspoons vanilla syrup or extract
- Sweetener (optional): honey or sugar to taste

What Is a London Fog Drink?
The London Fog is a hot drink that combines Earl Grey tea, vanilla syrup and steamed milk, and creates a cloud-like appearance (hence the name). Sometimes referred to as a London Fog Tea Latte, it’s sweet and simple, and makes the ultimate cozy drink on a cold and/or dreary day.
How to Make a London Fog Drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 8 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 or 2 bags of Earl Grey tea
- 1 oz. vanilla syrup: Amoretti, Monin and Torani all make a good vanilla syrup.
- Milk of choice: If you’re wanting a thick tea drink, use cow’s milk or, if you prefer a plant-based alternative, try oat milk.
Directions
- Pour hot/boiling water over Earl Grey tea into your mug, filling the mug about half-full.
- Steep for 3 minutes and remove the tea.
- Add 1 oz. of vanilla syrup to the tea.
- Froth warmed milk or steam your milk of choice.
- Pour milk into your mug and enjoy!
How to Make an Iced London Fog
To make an iced London Fog, brew the tea slightly stronger than usual, let it cool, then pour it over ice with milk and vanilla. If you want a bolder flavor, use two tea bags or steep a little longer.
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