Earl Grey is primarily brewed as a hot beverage by steeping the bergamot-infused black tea leaves in freshly boiled water for 3 to 5 minutes. It is commonly served plain, with a slice of lemon (which complements the citrus notes), or with milk and sugar, though purists often avoid milk to preserve the bergamot flavor. It forms the base for popular variations like Lady Grey (additional orange peel and lemon), London Fog (a latte made with steamed milk and vanilla), and Earl Grey crème (enhanced with vanilla or cornflower petals). Beyond drinking, Earl Grey is also used in cooking for recipes like Earl Grey tea cakes, scones, panna cotta, chocolate truffles, and poached pears, as well as in marinades for poultry or desserts to add a floral-citrus depth. It can be brewed, chilled, and sweetened to make a refreshing iced tea or used in cocktails like an Earl Grey martini.