Ever wondered about the warm, toasty drink that’s been popping up in cafes and on social media?
That’s the hojicha latte, a delicious Japanese roasted green tea beverage that’s giving matcha a run for its money.
What is Hojicha?
Hojicha (焙じ茶) is a type of Japanese green tea that originated in Kyoto.
Unlike other green teas, hojicha leaves are roasted over charcoal, which gives them a distinct reddish-brown color and a unique nutty, caramelized flavor.
This roasting process also significantly lowers the tea’s caffeine content, making it a popular choice for an evening drink.
For lattes, hojicha is typically used in a fine powder form, similar to matcha. This powder dissolves easily in hot water, creating a smooth, concentrated tea base that blends perfectly with steamed milk.
What Does a Hojicha Latte Taste Like?
If you’re used to the grassy, slightly bitter notes of matcha, hojicha offers a completely different experience.
A hojicha latte has a rich, toasty flavor with hints of caramel and a naturally sweet, earthy undertone.
It’s smooth, comforting, and less astringent than other green teas. The roasted aroma alone is enough to make you feel cozy.
Benefits of Hojicha
Beyond its delicious taste, hojicha comes with several health benefits.
The roasting process reduces the caffeine and catechins (which can cause bitterness), but it preserves many of the tea’s other beneficial compounds.
Low in Caffeine
Hojicha contains significantly less caffeine than coffee and even other green teas like matcha. This makes it a great option if you’re sensitive to caffeine or want a warm drink before bed.
Rich in Antioxidants
Like other green teas, hojicha is packed with antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Promotes Relaxation
Hojicha contains L-Theanine, an amino acid known for its calming effects. It can help reduce stress and promote relaxation without causing drowsiness.
How to Make a Perfect Hojicha Latte at Home
Making a hojicha latte at home is surprisingly simple. You only need a few key ingredients and tools.
Ingredients
- 1–2 tsp Hojicha Powder
- 2 oz (60 ml) Hot Water (around 175°F / 80°C)
- 6 oz (180 ml) Milk of your choice (oat and whole milk work great)
- 1 tsp Sweetener (optional, e.g., maple syrup, honey, or simple syrup)
Necessary Tools
- A small bowl (chawan): A traditional matcha bowl is ideal, but any small bowl will do.
- A bamboo whisk (chasen): This is the best tool for dissolving the powder and creating a frothy texture. If you don’t have one, a small regular whisk or an electric milk frother will work.
- A milk frother or steamer: To get that classic latte foam.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Hojicha
Sift 1–2 teaspoons of hojicha powder into your bowl. This step is crucial to prevent lumps. Add 2 oz of hot water (not boiling, as it can burn the tea and make it bitter).
Whisk the Tea
Using your bamboo whisk, mix the powder and water in a brisk ‘W’ or ‘M’ motion until all the powder has dissolved and a light foam appears on the surface.
Sweeten (Optional)
If you prefer a sweeter latte, stir in your sweetener of choice now.
Steam and Froth the Milk
Heat your milk to about 140-155°F (60-68°C). Use a milk frother or steamer to create a velvety microfoam.
If you don’t have a frother, you can heat the milk on the stovetop and shake it vigorously in a sealed jar.
Combine and Serve
Pour the hojicha mixture into your favorite mug. Gently pour the frothed milk over the tea. You can even try your hand at some latte art! Dust a little extra hojicha powder on top for garnish.
Iced Hojicha Latte Variation
For a refreshing twist, an iced hojicha latte is just as easy to make.
- Follow steps 1-3 above to prepare the sweetened hojicha base.
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Pour 6 oz of cold milk over the ice.
- Gently pour the hojicha mixture on top.
- Stir well before drinking and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in your cup? Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional value for a standard 8 oz (240 ml) hojicha latte made with 2% milk and no added sugar.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
| Calories | ~110 kcal |
| Carbs | ~10 g |
| Protein | ~8 g |
| Fat | ~5 g |
| Sugar | ~10 g (from milk) |
| Caffeine | ~7-10 mg |
Note: These values can vary based on the type of milk and sweetener used.
Hojicha vs. Matcha: What’s the Difference?
While both are powdered Japanese green teas, hojicha and matcha are distinct in several ways.
| Feature | Hojicha | Matcha |
| Processing | Made from roasted green tea leaves (bancha) | Made from shade-grown, steamed tea leaves (tencha) |
| Color | Reddish-brown | Vibrant green |
| Flavor | Nutty, toasty, caramel-like, low astringency | Grassy, umami, slightly sweet, can be astringent |
| Caffeine | Very low (~7-10 mg per serving) | High (~60-70 mg per serving) |
| Best Time | Afternoon or evening | Morning or early afternoon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make hojicha powder from tea leaves?
Yes, but it requires a powerful grinder (like a spice or coffee grinder) and a mortar and pestle to get the powder fine enough for a latte.
For convenience and the best texture, buying pre-ground hojicha powder is recommended.
Where can I buy hojicha powder?
You can find hojicha powder online from specialty tea retailers like Hojicha Co. or Ippodo, as well as on Amazon. Some well-stocked Asian grocery stores may also carry it.
What milk is best for a hojicha latte?
Oat milk is a popular choice because its creamy texture and neutral flavor complement the toasty notes of hojicha beautifully.
Whole dairy milk also froths well and adds a rich taste. Ultimately, the best milk is the one you enjoy most!
Is a hojicha latte healthy?
Yes, it can be a healthy beverage. It’s low in caffeine, rich in antioxidants, and can be made with little to no added sugar.
The healthiness depends on your choice of milk and how much sweetener you add.
A New Go-To Comfort Drink
The hojicha latte is more than just a trendy drink; it’s a comforting and flavorful experience.
Its low caffeine content makes it a versatile beverage you can enjoy any time of day, while its unique roasted flavor offers a delightful alternative to your usual coffee or tea.
Now that you have the recipe and all the details, you’re ready to brew your own perfect cup. Give it a try and discover your new favorite cozy drink.
Naeem is a passionate drink enthusiast and recipe curator behind DrinkWhisper.com. With 10 years of exploring cafes, bars, and home mixology trends, he shares inspiring drinks, creative cocktails, and refreshing non alcoholic recipes for every occasion.
