Name: London Fog Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk; 2 bags or 2 tsp Earl Grey tea; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk (tea-infused)

If you’re a fan of cozy flavors and bakery-style treats, you’re in for something truly comforting with these London Fog Rolls. Inspired by the warm, vanilla and bergamot notes of the classic Earl Grey tea latte, this recipe transforms that beloved drink into a soft, fluffy roll with a creamy glaze that’s infused with just the right touch of tea and sweetness. Perfect with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat, each bite feels like a calm moment in a whirlwind day.

What makes these rolls stand out is their aroma—the scent of black tea steeped with lavender and vanilla as they bake will make your kitchen smell like your favorite tearoom. They strike that beautiful balance of familiar cinnamon roll comfort with an unexpected, fragrant twist. Whether you serve them at brunch or gift them to a friend, they bring a bit of charm and elegance to the table.

Why You’ll Love This London Fog Roll Recipe

This recipe is a dream come true for Earl Grey lovers. It’s not just about making another cinnamon roll; it’s about turning a tea moment into something freshly baked. The dough is buttery and soft, the filling is delicately infused with tea, and the glaze has a lovely vanilla finish that pairs beautifully with the floral tones.

They’re indulgent without being heavy, and perfect for when you want to bake something unique yet simple enough to pull off with pantry staples.

What Kind of Tea Should I Use for London Fog Rolls?

To capture the signature London Fog flavor, you’ll need a good-quality Earl Grey tea. Look for one that includes real bergamot oil for that citrusy essence, and if possible, a blend that contains dried lavender or vanilla pieces. Loose-leaf tea offers the strongest aroma, but you can also cut open a few teabags if that’s what you have.

Steeping the tea in warm milk or cream before adding it to your dough or glaze ensures that flavor carries through every layer of the roll.

Ingredients for the London Fog Rolls

The ingredients you’ll need for these rolls are likely already in your kitchen. Each component plays a role in creating those layers of pillowy dough, tea-infused filling, and creamy glaze that define a perfect London Fog Roll.

Whole milk – You’ll steep the tea in warm milk to gently infuse the dough with Earl Grey flavor.
Earl Grey tea – The heart of the recipe, providing that fragrant bergamot aroma.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling.
Active dry yeast – Makes the dough rise into fluffy, cloud-like layers.
All-purpose flour – The base for the soft roll structure.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture to both the dough and filling.
Eggs – Bind the dough and enrich the flavor.
Brown sugar – Provides a caramel depth to the tea-flavored filling.
Vanilla extract – Balances the bergamot with warm, cozy notes.
Powdered sugar – Essential for the soft, sweet glaze.
Cream cheese – Gives the glaze a luscious tang and thickness.
Salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.

How To Make the London Fog Rolls

Step 1: Infuse the Milk with Tea

Warm the milk in a small saucepan until steaming but not boiling. Add the Earl Grey tea (bags or loose-leaf in a sachet) and let steep for about 10 minutes. Remove the tea and let the milk cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm tea-infused milk with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the eggs, melted butter, and salt, then gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

Step 3: Make the Filling

Mix softened butter, brown sugar, a bit more Earl Grey tea (finely ground or steeped and cooled), and vanilla extract until spreadable and fragrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Roll out the dough into a rectangle and spread the filling evenly. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into even rounds. Place in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25 to 30 minutes until golden and puffed. Let them cool slightly before glazing.

Step 6: Glaze

Whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of leftover tea-infused milk until smooth. Drizzle generously over the warm rolls.

How to Serve and Store These London Fog Rolls

London Fog Rolls are best served warm, fresh from the oven, when the glaze is just melting into the swirls. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of Earl Grey or even coffee for a more robust pairing. This recipe makes about 12 rolls, making it ideal for a family breakfast, a brunch gathering, or freezing extras for a future sweet tooth moment.

To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 20 seconds to bring back the softness.

What to Serve With London Fog Rolls?

Fresh Berries and Yogurt

Balance the sweet richness with a refreshing bowl of seasonal berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Scrambled Eggs with Herbs

Add a savory contrast by serving the rolls with soft, herbed scrambled eggs on the side.

Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese

For a brunch spread, this pairing adds elegance and protein to balance the sweet.

Bacon or Sausage Links

Classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon or savory sausage bring hearty texture to the table.

Citrus Salad

A simple mix of orange, grapefruit, and mint brings out the bergamot in the rolls.

Iced Chai Latte

Stay in the tea family and sip on something cool and spiced alongside the warm, soft rolls.

Baked Brie with Honey

Creamy brie with a drizzle of honey pairs surprisingly well with the subtle floral flavors.

Lavender Lemonade

A floral drink like lavender lemonade refreshes the palate and echoes the roll’s essence.

Want More Sweet Bakes with a Twist?

If these London Fog Rolls caught your eye, you’ll want to try these unique and satisfying sweet treats too:

Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for the perfect dessert version of your favorite roll.
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons for a tropical touch with rich texture.
Ooey Gooey Bars if you’re after that decadent melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a comforting Southern favorite.
Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars for a fun way to use up your candy stash.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add lavender to the filling or stick with classic vanilla? Maybe you swapped the glaze for a maple drizzle?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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