Save to Pinterest Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon is a refreshing Japanese-inspired iced tea that brings together the earthy, toasted notes of roasted hojicha with the creamy richness of milk and a warm hint of cinnamon. This beverage is a sophisticated alternative to standard iced tea, offering a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and cooling.
Save to Pinterest Hojicha is distinct among Japanese green teas because the leaves are roasted, resulting in a nutty, caramel-like flavor and a beautiful amber color. When served over ice with a splash of milk and a dash of cinnamon, it creates a refreshing latte-style drink that is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- Tea: 2 tablespoons hojicha loose leaf tea (or 2 hojicha tea bags), 2 cups water
- Dairy & Sweetener: 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, such as oat or almond milk), 1–2 teaspoons honey or simple syrup (optional)
- Garnish: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for sprinkling, ice cubes
Instructions
- Step 1
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add hojicha tea leaves or tea bags, reduce heat and steep for 5 minutes.
- Step 2
- Strain the tea into a heatproof pitcher and allow to cool to room temperature. For quicker chilling, refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Step 3
- Fill two glasses with ice cubes.
- Step 4
- Pour cooled hojicha tea over the ice, filling each glass halfway.
- Step 5
- Stir in milk and sweetener to taste.
- Step 6
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon over each glass and stir gently.
- Step 7
- Garnish with an extra pinch of cinnamon on top and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure you adjust the sweetness and the amount of cinnamon to your own personal preference. If you're using loose leaf tea, be sure to use a fine strainer to keep the liquid clear and smooth.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply use oat, almond, or soy milk. For a professional café-style effect, you can froth the milk before adding it to the glasses for a beautiful layered look.
Serviervorschläge
This drink is best served immediately while chilled. It pairs beautifully with light desserts such as mochi or simple buttery shortbread cookies for a balanced afternoon snack.
Save to Pinterest With its delightful aroma and layered appearance, Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon is as beautiful to look at as it is to drink. Enjoy this calming fusion of flavors as a sophisticated midday treat or a cooling evening refreshment.
Ask About This Recipe
- → What does hojicha taste like?
Hojicha has a distinctive nutty, toasty flavor with caramel notes and minimal bitterness. Unlike green teas, the roasting process gives hojicha a rich, earthy profile that pairs beautifully with milk and warm spices like cinnamon.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can brew and chill the hojicha base up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add milk, sweetener, and cinnamon just before serving for the freshest taste.
- → Is hojicha caffeinated?
Hojicha contains less caffeine than other green teas due to the roasting process, with approximately 20-30mg per cup. This makes it a gentler option for afternoon or evening enjoyment compared to coffee or regular tea.
- → What milk works best?
Whole dairy milk creates the creamiest result, but oat milk provides an excellent plant-based alternative with natural sweetness. Almond and soy milk also work well, though coconut milk may overpower the delicate hojicha flavor.
- → Can I serve this hot?
Absolutely. Skip the ice and pour the freshly brewed hojicha into a mug with steamed milk and cinnamon. The warming version makes a comforting alternative to lattes during colder months.
- → How should I store leftover hojicha leaves?
Keep loose hojicha leaves in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored, they maintain optimal flavor for 6-12 months. Avoid storing near spices or strongly scented ingredients.