Save This Iced Hojicha Latte is a refreshing and aromatic Japanese beverage that perfectly balances the earthy, roasted notes of hojicha tea with creamy milk and natural sweetness. Unlike standard green teas, hojicha is roasted, resulting in a nutty flavor and a soothing aroma that makes it an ideal chilled treat for any time of day.
Save By steeping the roasted leaves and combining them with your choice of milk, you create a drink that is both sophisticated and simple. It is a fantastic alternative to iced coffee, offering a lower caffeine content and a distinctive taste that is both cozy and refreshing.
Ingredients
- Tea: 2 tablespoons hojicha loose leaf tea or 2 hojicha tea bags, plus 1 cup (240 ml) hot water.
- Sweetener & Flavor: 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
- Milk: 1 cup (240 ml) milk of choice (dairy, oat, soy, or almond).
- To Serve: 1 cup ice cubes.
Instructions
- Step 1: Brew the Tea
- Steep the tea leaves or tea bags in 1 cup of hot water (just below boiling, 90°C/195°F) for 3–4 minutes.
- Step 2: Strain
- Strain and discard the tea leaves or remove the tea bags from the water.
- Step 3: Sweeten
- While the tea is still warm, stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.
- Step 4: Cool
- Let the tea cool to room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator for a faster chill.
- Step 5: Prepare Glasses
- Fill two serving glasses with the ice cubes.
- Step 6: Pour
- Pour the sweetened hojicha tea evenly over the ice in both glasses.
- Step 7: Add Milk
- Top each glass with 1/2 cup of milk and stir gently to combine.
- Step 8: Serve
- Serve your refreshing iced latte immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best flavor, use water that is just below boiling (90°C/195°F) to avoid any bitterness in the tea. For an extra creamy experience, try frothing your milk before pouring it over the tea and ice.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, simply use a plant-based milk like oat or almond. You can also adjust the sweetness to your preference by substituting the maple syrup with honey or agave.
Serviervorschläge
Enhance the presentation by garnishing your latte with a light sprinkle of hojicha powder or a cinnamon stick. It pairs beautifully with a light snack or as a standalone afternoon treat.
Save Enjoy this chilled, aromatic roasted green tea treat as the perfect way to cool down while savoring traditional Japanese flavors in a modern way.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes hojicha different from regular green tea?
Hojicha is roasted green tea leaves, giving it a reddish-brown color and distinct nutty, caramel-like flavor profile. The roasting process reduces caffeine and bitterness, making it smoother and more mellow than traditional green teas like matcha or sencha.
- → Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Absolutely! Honey works beautifully as a natural sweetener in this latte. Use the same amount (2 teaspoons) and adjust to taste. Agave nectar or simple syrup also make excellent alternatives depending on your preference and what you have available.
- → What milk works best for iced hojicha latte?
Any milk you enjoy will work wonderfully. Dairy milk adds traditional creaminess, while oat milk provides a naturally sweet, frothy texture. Almond, soy, and coconut milk all create delicious variations. Choose based on your dietary needs and flavor preferences.
- → How do I store leftover hojicha tea concentrate?
Brewed hojicha concentrate stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make a larger batch and keep it chilled for quick latte preparation throughout the week. Add sweetener when you're ready to make the latte for the freshest flavor.
- → Is hojicha lower in caffeine than coffee?
Yes, hojicha naturally contains less caffeine than coffee due to the roasting process which breaks down some caffeine compounds. One cup typically contains about 20-30mg of caffeine compared to 95mg in a typical cup of coffee, making it a gentler choice for afternoon enjoyment.