A Refreshing Twist on a Classic: Dairy-Free Iced London Fog

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm cup of tea. But when summer rolls around, I crave that same comfort in a cooler form. That’s where the Dairy-Free Iced London Fog comes in. It’s a delightful blend of Earl Grey tea, vanilla, and creamy non-dairy milk, poured over ice for a refreshing treat.

The London Fog, despite its British-sounding name, actually hails from Vancouver, Canada. It’s a tea-based drink traditionally made with Earl Grey, steamed milk, and vanilla syrup. The “fog” refers to the steamed milk swirling into the tea, creating a misty appearance. Over time, this cozy beverage has gained popularity across North America, with various adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

This dairy-free version maintains the essence of the original while catering to those who avoid dairy. It’s perfect for hot days when you still want that comforting tea flavor without the heat. Plus, it’s simple to make at home, allowing you to customize it to your liking.

Ingredients and Substitutions

To make this refreshing drink, you’ll need:

1 Earl Grey tea bag
½ cup boiling water
16 oz cup of ice
3 pumps of vanilla syrup
½ cup of your preferred non-dairy milk

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate other dietary preferences, consider these substitutions:

Tea: While Earl Grey is traditional, you can experiment with other black teas or even green tea for a different flavor profile.
Sweetener: Instead of vanilla syrup, try honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness.
Milk: Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work well. Each brings its own unique taste and texture, so feel free to explore.

Remember, the key is to find the combination that best suits your palate and dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this iced beverage is straightforward:

Steep the Tea: Place the Earl Grey tea bag into ½ cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor.
Prepare the Glass: Fill a 16 oz cup with ice.
Add Milk and Sweetener: Pour ½ cup of your chosen non-dairy milk over the ice. Then, add 3 pumps of vanilla syrup. If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add an extra pump.
Combine: Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea bag and pour the brewed tea into the cup over the milk and ice.
Stir and Enjoy: Give the drink a good stir to combine all the ingredients. Sip and savor the refreshing flavors.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to adjust it to your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tea and let it cool in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, assemble the drink by adding ice, milk, and sweetener, then pour in the chilled tea.

Is there a caffeine-free version?

Absolutely. Substitute the Earl Grey tea with a caffeine-free herbal tea like rooibos. It offers a similar depth of flavor without the caffeine.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Certainly. Feel free to use honey, agave nectar, maple syrup, or even a sugar-free alternative. Adjust the quantity to achieve your desired sweetness.

What if I don’t have vanilla syrup?

You can make a simple vanilla syrup at home by combining equal parts sugar and water, heating until the sugar dissolves, and adding a splash of vanilla extract. Let it cool before using.

Can I make this drink hot instead of iced?

Yes, for a traditional London Fog, skip the ice and use steamed non-dairy milk. Combine the steeped tea, steamed milk, and sweetener in a mug, stir, and enjoy warm.

This Dairy-Free Iced London Fog is a delightful way to enjoy a classic beverage with a cool twist. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for those warm days when you still crave the comfort of tea. Give it a try and see how it becomes a staple in your beverage rotation.