Healthy London Fog Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe)
Make a creamy, cozy, Healthy London Fog Latte Starbucks-style latte at home. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and totally guilt-free!

Healthy Starbucks London Fog Latte Copycat Recipe
There’s nothing better than sipping a warm, comforting tea latte on a cozy day, especially when it’s a healthier take on a favorite coffee shop classic. A homemade London Fog Latte is incredibly easy to make and offers the perfect balance of flavors—with fragrant Earl Grey tea, a touch of vanilla, and just the right amount of frothy milk. You can enjoy this delightful drink guilt-free using simple ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, and natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or monk fruit. And the best part? It’s lower in caffeine and entirely customizable to your preferences! If you’re curious about other comforting drinks, you might also love this Hormone Balancing Dandelion And Chicory Root Latte. Let’s explore how to transform your kitchen into your personal cafe with this easy recipe!
What is a London Fog Latte?
A London Fog Latte is a blend of Earl Grey tea, infused with notes of bergamot, sweet vanilla undertones, and creamy steamed milk. It is the perfect drink for relaxation or a pick-me-up on a chilly day. Adding lavender gives it an aromatic twist, making it stand apart from your average tea latte.
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The History Behind the Drink
The London Fog drink has an interesting backstory. It’s believed to have originated in Vancouver, British Columbia, in the 1990s. A pregnant woman reportedly ordered a soothing Earl Grey tea with steamed milk, vanilla, and sweetener, and the blend became an instant hit. From its humble beginnings in local coffee shops to its rise in popularity across Starbucks locations, this comforting tea latte quickly gained a loyal following. Today, it’s a go-to for tea lovers craving something warm and decadent.
Inspired by London’s characteristic misty weather, the name evokes a sense of comfort and coziness. The drink is often associated with moments of calm—a good book in hand or some soft music in the background. Isn’t that what we all look for in a comforting drink?
Looking for another way to enjoy Earl Grey tea? Check out this creative How to Make Tea-Dyed Eggs for a fun twist.
Why to Make it?
The magic of a London Fog Latte lies in its unique ingredients and how they come together:
- Earl Grey Tea: At the heart of this drink is Earl Grey tea, a black tea flavored with bergamot oil. The citrusy, floral aroma of bergamot is what sets Earl Grey apart from other types of tea.
- Steamed Milk: The great thing about this drink is that you can use the milk of your choice. My favorite milks are coconut and goat milk. The steamed milk creates a rich, frothy base that elevates the drink’s creaminess.
- Vanilla: Vanilla adds a touch of sweetness.
- Lavender (Optional): Lavender is sometimes added for an extra layer of sophistication. This aromatic herb can be infused into syrup or sprinkled lightly for a soothing, floral note.
- Sweetener of Your Choice: I use maple syrup or erythritol.
Remember that a milk frother can work wonders, ensuring the perfect layer of foamy milk.

Ingredients for a Healthier London Fog Latte
The cornerstone of any London Fog Latte is high-quality Earl Grey tea. Its signature flavor comes from bergamot oil, a fragrant citrus extract that makes this tea so special. For the best results:
- Opt for loose-leaf tea if possible; it retains more flavor and aroma than tea bags.
- If tea bags are your go-to, make sure they’re labeled as high-quality or organic to avoid artificial additives.
- Brew the tea strong—this ensures the bold notes of black tea and bergamot shine through the creamy milk.
A deep, robust Earl Grey tea will elevate your latte from decent to unforgettable. Curious about other uses for tea? Explore this guide to How to Make Tea-Dyed Eggs.
Milk Options for Any Diet
The “milk” in your Earl Grey tea latte is just as important as the tea. The kind you pick will influence the drink’s texture and flavor. Here’s a quick comparison of options:
- Almond Milk: Light and nutty, perfect if you’re watching calories.
- Goat Milk: Easeir to digest than cow milk.
- Oat Milk: Creamy and rich, with a hint of sweetness—ideal for frothing.
- Coconut Milk: Adds tropical flavor while maintaining creaminess.
- Cashew Milk: Subtly nutty and incredibly smooth; great for frothy milk.
- Regular Milk: Always an option, with its tried-and-true balance of richness and froth.

Natural Sweeteners Over Refined Sugar
Why use regular sugar when natural sweeteners deliver the same satisfaction and health benefits? Here’s what you can use:
- Maple Syrup: Adds caramel-like depth and blends seamlessly.
- Honey: Slightly floral and pairs wonderfully with the tea.
- Stevia: A calorie-free option for those cutting back on sugar.
- Monk Fruit or Erythritol: Excellent sugar replacement that doesn’t raise blood sugar.
These sweeteners taste amazing and provide a more balanced energy boost. For more sweet ideas, see how natural sugars enhance recipes like this Hormone Balancing Mixed Berry Smoothie.
Lavender
Lavender provides a beautiful floral aroma that transforms your latte into a relaxation ritual. Here’s how to incorporate it:
- Use lavender syrup made from organic ingredients for a smooth infusion.
- Use levnder ifnusion tea
- Sprinkle edible lavender leaves for a subtle, earthy flavor. Always opt for culinary lavender to avoid bitterness.
Lavender mixes effortlessly with Earl Grey’s aromatic bergamot, giving the latte an extra sensory layer. Want to try other ways to enjoy floral-inspired drinks? Learn how lavender shines in recipes like Seed Cycling Moon Milks for Hormonal Balance.
Ready to blend these ingredients into a healthier version of your favorite café classic? Keep reading as we unfold more about the art of crafting a Starbucks-inspired London Fog Latte at home!

How to Make a Healthy London Fog Latte at Home
Making a London Fog Latte at home is simpler than you think. It’s a satisfying way to enjoy a creamy, comforting tea latte without leaving your kitchen. Let’s break down the process into a few easy-to-follow sub-steps.
Brewing the Perfect Earl Grey Tea
The foundation of any great London Fog Latte is Earl Grey’s is the tea itself. Earl Grey, known for its distinctive bergamot aroma, needs the right brewing method to truly shine. Here’s what you’ll want to keep in mind:
- Water Temperature: Heat your water to about 200°F (just before boiling) for optimal flavor.
- Steeping Time: Steep Earl Grey tea (loose leaf or a high-quality tea bag) for 3-5 minutes. Any longer, and it can become bitter.
- Optional Add-Ons: If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a pinch of dried lavender for an aromatic twist.
Creating Frothy Milk
A layer of creamy, frothy milk is key to the delightful texture of a London Fog Latte. Luckily, there are several methods you can use depending on what you have at home:
- Handheld Frother: Heat your milk (almond milk, oat milk, or your favorite choice) until it’s warm but not boiling. Use your handheld frother to create that dreamy foam.
- Milk Steamer: If you have a milk steamer, it’s even easier! Just steam the milk and make it foamy.
- Regular Blender: No fancy devices? No problem. Add warmed milk to a blender and blend on high for 20-30 seconds.
For more creative ways to froth and use milk in beverages, check out this recipe for a Copycat Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte (Healthier Verison)
Combining Tea and Milk
Now it’s time for the magic—the blending of your perfectly brewed tea and frothy milk:
- Start with your brewed Earl Grey tea in a mug.
- Add a dash of vanilla extract and your natural sweetener of choice (like maple syrup or honey) to enhance the sweetness.
- Pour your steamed, frothy milk over the tea.
- Gently stir to combine the flavors, but not too much—you want that silky foam on top.
Optional: Making it Iced for Warmer Days
When it’s too hot for a cozy drink, you can turn your London Fog Latte into a refreshing iced version. Here’s how:
- Brew your Earl Grey tea and then let it cool to room temperature (or refrigerate for faster results).
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour the cooled tea over them.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract and sweetener, then top with chilled milk (oat milk works wonderfully here). To enhance the frothy texture, give it a shake in a mason jar before pouring. For more refreshing drink ideas, explore herbal tea recipes and tips in Lemon Balm Health Benefits and Culinary Uses.
For more refreshing drink ideas, explore herbal tea recipes and tips in Lemon Balm Health Benefits and Culinary Uses.

Health Benefits of a Homemade London Fog Latte
Unlike coffee, which delivers a strong punch of caffeine, this latte uses Earl Grey tea as its base, offering a gentler energy boost. With Earl Grey tea, you’ll get a moderate caffeine level that’s easier on your system, avoiding the jittery effects that coffee often brings. This makes it an excellent option for those mindful of their caffeine intake or seeking a hot drink to wind down during the afternoon. You get just the right lift to stay alert without feeling overstimulated. Need options for additional tea-based drinks? You might love learning how to make Dandelion Tea + Health Benefits.
Natural Sweetness, No Sugar Crash
The beauty of a homemade London Fog Latte lies in the ability to control the ingredients, especially the sweetener. While store-bought versions often use pumps of sugary syrups, making it home allows you to infuse natural sweetness through maple syrup or honey. These choices enhance the flavor and prevent the dreaded sugar crash often associated with refined sugars. They provide sustained energy, making this drink both indulgent and nourishing. Plus, it’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without using artificial or processed options.
Better Digestive Health with Plant-Based Milks
Ditching dairy doesn’t just cater to lactose-intolerant individuals—it benefits digestion overall. Substituting with almond milk or coconut milk makes the latte easier to digest. It offers additional nutrients, such as fiber and vitamins. Unlike regular milk, which might leave you feeling heavy, these options keep the drink light and satisfying, supporting digestive health while adding a creamy texture. Curious about using plant-based ingredients in other recipes? You may enjoy this related post on Motherwort Health Benefits For Women + Motherwort Tincture.
Experiment with Different Types of Tea
Earl Grey is the star of a traditional London Fog Latte, but why not branch out and see what other teas can do? Here are some fun variations:
- Vanilla Chai Tea: Adds a spicy, warm twist to the latte.
- Green Tea: Creates a lighter, fresher version.
- Roobois: Naturally caffeine-free, offering earthy and rich undertones.
- Jasmine Tea: A floral option for those who want something delicate.
Switching up your tea is like giving your latte a makeover. Check out Best Detox Tea Recipes For Women to inspire more tea explorations.
Customization is one of the best parts of making a homemade latte. Get creative and have fun experimenting with these ideas to craft your perfect comforting tea latte.

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Healthy London Fog Latte (Starbucks Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cashew milk or milk of your choice
- 1-2 tbsp Loose leaf Earl Grey tea or 1 tea bag
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp Lavender
- 1 tsp Honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup Milk steamed milk foam for topping or cream
Instructions
- 1. **Brew the Tea:** Bring a cup of water to a simmer in a small pot. Remove from heat and add the Earl Grey tea bag (and lavender, if using). Let it steep for about 5 minutes. You can also add lavender and brew it together for lavender infusion.2. **Combine with Milk:** Add the almond milk to the tea mixture and warm it gently over low heat (do not bring it to a boil). Stir in the vanilla extract and honey or sweetener. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.3. **Final Strain:** Once you’ve combined the milk and tea mixture, use a sieve to strain it to remove any lavender pieces for a smoother drink.4. **Froth the Milk:** If you have more a frother, froth additional almond milk or cream and then add it to the strained tea mixture for a light and airy texture.5. **Garnish (Optional):** You can sprinkle a little lavender or a dusting of cinnamon on top for added flavor and beauty. Enjoy!
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