Name: Delightful London Fog Rolls with Lavender Cream Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 145 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Milk (Warm, around 110°F (43°C)); 2 teaspoons Active dry yeast (Fresh); 3 tablespoons Loose leaf Earl Grey tea (Can substitute with tea bags); 4 cups All-purpose flour (Scoop and level); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 cup Granulated white sugar (Adjust as desired); 2 large Eggs (Whisked); 1 tablespoon Vanilla bean paste (Substitute with extract if needed); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Softened); 1/2 cup Brown sugar; 1/4 cup Honey (Maple syrup can be used); 1/2 cup Heavy cream; 2 tablespoons Culinary lavender (Fresh or dried); 8 ounces Cream cheese (Cold); 3 cups Powdered sugar

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As I pulled the warm, gooey London Fog Rolls from the oven, the sweet aroma of vanilla and Earl Grey tea enveloped my kitchen like a cozy hug. These delightful rolls are not just any breakfast treat; they blend the comforting essence of a beloved tea into a soft, fluffy dough, giving you a reason to celebrate every morning. With an irresistible lavender cream cheese frosting on top, these rolls offer the perfect balance of indulgence and charm. They are quick to prepare and sure to impress, turning your brunch into an extraordinary affair with minimal effort. So, are you ready to elevate your mornings with these aromatic delights? Let’s dive into crafting these delicious rolls together!

Why are London Fog Rolls irresistible?

Sublime flavor: The enchanting blend of Earl Grey tea and lavender creates an aromatic experience that elevates your palate.
Soft and fluffy: These rolls are pillowy perfection, making each bite a cozy indulgence.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these treats in no time, just like my delicious Pepperoni Croissant Rolls.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether for brunch, tea time, or a sweet snack, these rolls are sure to delight friends and family.
A touch of elegance: The lavender cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious finish, perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself.
Versatile options: Feel free to experiment with different flours or add fruits to the filling for a new twist on each batch!

London Fog Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

Milk – Provides moisture and activates yeast; use warm whole milk at about 110°F (43°C) for best results.
Active dry yeast – The leavening agent that gives the rolls their fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh and properly bloomed.
Loose leaf Earl Grey tea – Infuses a distinctive tea flavor into the dough; feel free to substitute with Earl Grey tea bags if needed.
All-purpose flour – The main structure of the rolls; scoop and level it to avoid excess measurement.
Salt – Essential for flavor balance in sweet rolls; it enhances the overall taste.
Granulated white sugar – Sweetens the dough; you can reduce the amount for less sweetness, if desired.
Eggs – Contributes richness and aids in dough structure; whisk before adding to the mixture.
Vanilla bean paste – Adds deep flavor; can be substituted with vanilla extract in a pinch.
Unsalted butter – Enhances richness and creates a soft texture; soften before using for easier incorporation.

For the Filling

Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor profile to the filling.
Honey – Sweetens and adds moisture; maple syrup can be used as a substitute.
Heavy cream – Soaks into the rolls during proofing for an added gooeyness.

For the Frosting

Culinary lavender – Provides flavoring for the cream cheese frosting; both fresh and dried lavender can be used for fragrance.
Cream cheese – Forms the base for the frosting; use cold to create a fluffy texture when mixed.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve a smooth consistency.

Now you’re all set to create these indulgent London Fog Rolls—a blissful treat that’s as delightful to make as it is to enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for London Fog Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C) with granulated sugar and active dry yeast. Allow this mixture to sit for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy and activated. This step ensures your London Fog Rolls will be light and fluffy, inviting you into a delightful baking experience.

Step 2: Dough Mixing
In a stand mixer, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and finely ground Earl Grey tea. Add in the activated yeast mixture, whisked eggs, vanilla bean paste, and softened butter. Mix on low speed until the ingredients cohere, then increase to medium speed until everything is well blended into a soft, sticky dough.

Step 3: Knead Dough
Knead the dough with the dough hook attachment on medium speed for 7-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic, springing back when pressed lightly. Take your time during this step, as it develops the gluten necessary for the perfect texture of your London Fog Rolls.

Step 4: First Rise
Form the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rising time allows the flavors to deepen and enhances the fluffiness of your rolls.

Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, honey, vanilla, salt, and the remaining finely ground Earl Grey tea in a small bowl. Stir these ingredients until they form a smooth, creamy consistency to create a flavorful center for your gooey London Fog Rolls.

Step 6: Roll Out Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle measuring approximately 18×12 inches. Spread the prepared Earl Grey filling evenly across the dough, allowing the enticing aroma to fill your kitchen as you begin creating your rolls.

Step 7: Shape Rolls
Starting at one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using unflavored dental floss, slice the rolled dough into 12 even pieces, ensuring clean cuts. This method not only keeps the rolls intact but also maintains their soft texture, making your London Fog Rolls even more delightful.

Step 8: Second Rise
Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased casserole dish, leaving some space between them. Pour heavy cream in and around the rolls, which will soak in as they rise. Cover the dish and allow the rolls to proof for about 1 hour, until they have puffed up and filled the dish, setting the stage for baking.

Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the risen London Fog Rolls for 22-25 minutes. The rolls should be golden brown on top and fragrant as they bake—an irresistible sign that they’re almost ready to come out of the oven.

Step 10: Make Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the lavender cream cheese frosting. Blend together culinary lavender, softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aromatic frosting will beautifully complement your luscious rolls.

Step 11: Frost Rolls
After removing the rolls from the oven, let them cool for about 5 minutes. Spread the velvety lavender cream cheese frosting generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly into the grooves. This decadent topping transforms your London Fog Rolls into a sweet indulgence that’s ready to be savored!

Make Ahead Options

These London Fog Rolls are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. After shaping the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap (lightly greased to prevent sticking) and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the rolls rise at room temperature for about 1 hour before proceeding to the baking step. If you want to take it a step further, you can make the lavender cream cheese frosting up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors only get more delightful with time! Just give it a quick stir before frosting your rolls for fresh and indulgent results.

How to Store and Freeze London Fog Rolls

Fridge: Store leftover London Fog Rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their gooey texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, maintaining their delightful flavor and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, simply remove the rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their soft, fluffy goodness.

Expert Tips for London Fog Rolls

Proper Yeast Activation: Ensure yeast blooms properly in warm milk with sugar for 10 minutes. If there’s no foam, your yeast may be inactive, leading to dense rolls.
Accurate Flour Measurement: Use a digital scale to measure flour precisely; this prevents the dough from becoming too dry or too sticky, ensuring perfect London Fog Rolls every time.
Avoid Over-kneading: Knead just until the dough is smooth and elastic; over-kneading may end up making the rolls tough instead of fluffy.
Use Dental Floss for Slicing: Employing unflavored dental floss provides clean cuts without squishing the dough, preserving the airy nature of your London Fog Rolls.
Add Heavy Cream Wisely: Pour heavy cream gently between the rolls before the second rise; too much cream can make them soggy instead of gooey.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow the rolls to cool for at least 5 minutes after baking before applying the lavender cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting away and maintains fluffy layers.

London Fog Rolls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful rolls to suit your taste!

Flavored Tea: Swap out Earl Grey for chai or lemon verbena to explore new taste dimensions.
Citrus Zest: Add fresh lemon or orange zest to the filling or frosting for a bright, zesty kick.
Fruit Infusion: Incorporate fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise in every bite.
Whole Wheat Flour: Exchange all-purpose flour for whole wheat for a healthier, heartier roll, with a nutty flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a vegan version of the lavender frosting.
Nutty Texture: Stir in chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the filling for an enjoyable crunch.
Spiced Roll: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to the dough for warm, comforting spice notes.
Frosting Variations: Try adding a hint of honey or maple syrup to the frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.

These variations will help you create a version of these mouthwatering Pepperoni Croissant Rolls that your family will love while offering a unique twist every time you bake!

What to Serve with Gooey London Fog Rolls

Indulging in the soft embrace of gooey rolls is only the beginning; let’s create a delightful meal experience!

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of fruits adds a refreshing pop of color and natural sweetness, enhancing the tea-infused flavor of the rolls.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of chamomile or mint tea echoes the delicate notes of lavender, providing a perfect balance for your morning indulgence.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with berries and granola for a creamy, crunchy contrast that complements the sweet, fluffy rolls beautifully.
Savory Quiche: A slice of cheesy quiche brings in a savory element, making your brunch spread diverse and satisfying for all taste buds.
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: Lightly sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top after frosting; the warm spices will harmonize beautifully with the Earl Grey sweetness.
Maple Latte: Sip on a rich maple latte to enhance the comforting feel of your rolls; its nutty sweetness pairs harmoniously with the floral notes.
Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of creamy cheeses, like Brie or goat cheese, which create a delightful contrast to the fluffy, gooey texture of the rolls.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a touch of decadence with a warm chocolate drizzle over the frosting, lending a sweet contrast without overpowering the floral hints.
Sparkling Water: Serve chilled sparkling water with fresh lemon slices for a refreshing palate cleanser that will brighten up the morning experience.
Whipped Cream: For a fluffy dessert twist, add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side, inviting everyone to indulge a little more.

London Fog Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Earl Grey tea for my rolls?
Absolutely! When selecting Earl Grey tea, opt for high-quality loose leaf tea for the best flavor infusion. Look for fragrant options that feature a good balance of bergamot oil. If using tea bags, make sure they contain real tea leaves rather than low-quality dust, as this can affect the overall taste and aroma in your rolls.

How should I store the leftover London Fog Rolls?
To keep your gooey London Fog Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them; however, I recommend reheating them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fluffy texture.

Can I freeze London Fog Rolls?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back their wonderful gooeyness.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough fails to rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and bloomed correctly in warm milk with sugar for about 10 minutes—look for a foamy texture as a sign. If there are no bubbles, you may need to start over. Additionally, make sure your rising environment is warm since cooler places can slow down the rising process.

Are London Fog Rolls suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! For those with dairy allergies or those following a vegan diet, you can substitute the regular butter and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Also, if someone is gluten-sensitive, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend; however, you may need to adjust the liquid components of the recipe to ensure the perfect dough consistency.