Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon

Transport yourself to a contemporary Japanese tea house with this exquisite Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon. This refreshing beverage combines the earthy, caramel-like notes of roasted hojicha tea with the warming touch of cinnamon and smooth creaminess of milk. Perfect for hot summer afternoons or as a refined alternative to your usual iced coffee, this Japanese fusion drink strikes the perfect balance between soothing and invigorating.

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Hojicha is a Japanese green tea that undergoes a unique roasting process, giving it a distinctive toasty flavor profile with notes of caramel and coffee. When combined with the warmth of cinnamon and the creamy texture of milk, it creates a sophisticated beverage that feels both comforting and refreshing. This iced version is particularly appealing during warmer months when you crave something cool yet complex in flavor.

Ingredients

• Tea: 2 tablespoons hojicha loose leaf tea (or 2 hojicha tea bags)
• Tea: 2 cups water
• Dairy & Sweetener: 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, such as oat or almond milk)
• Dairy & Sweetener: 1–2 teaspoons honey or simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• Garnish: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for sprinkling
• Garnish: 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

The key to a perfect Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon lies in the brewing time. Five minutes allows the roasted tea to fully release its complex flavors without becoming bitter. If you prefer a stronger tea flavor, you can increase the amount of hojicha rather than extending the brewing time. Allow the tea to cool completely before adding ice to prevent dilution and maintain the rich flavor profile.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations. For a dairy-free version, oat milk provides the creamiest texture, while almond milk adds a subtle nutty note that complements the roasted tea. You can also experiment with different sweeteners – maple syrup pairs beautifully with the cinnamon, while a date syrup adds caramel notes that enhance hojicha's natural profile. For a special occasion, add a splash of vanilla extract or replace regular cinnamon with a cinnamon stick as both garnish and flavor infuser.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this elegant Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon in tall, clear glasses to showcase its beautiful amber color and cinnamon sprinkle. It pairs wonderfully with traditional Japanese sweets like mochi or dorayaki, or with simple butter cookies for a more Western pairing. For a complete afternoon tea experience, serve alongside small savory sandwiches or light pastries. This beverage also makes a sophisticated non-alcoholic option for brunches or garden parties.

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Whether you're already a hojicha enthusiast or new to this wonderful Japanese tea, this Iced Hojicha with Cinnamon offers a refreshing way to explore its unique characteristics. The simple preparation belies the sophisticated flavor profile you'll achieve, making this an impressive yet effortless beverage to share with friends or enjoy in a quiet moment of personal indulgence. As the roasty notes of hojicha blend with the sweet warmth of cinnamon and the cooling creaminess of milk, you'll find yourself transported to a tranquil Japanese garden, regardless of your actual surroundings.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is hojicha tea?

Hojicha is a Japanese green tea roasted over high heat, giving it a toasty, caramel-like flavor with low bitterness.

→ Can I use non-dairy milk for this drink?

Yes, plant-based milks like oat, almond, or soy work well and enhance the creamy texture without altering the flavor profile drastically.

→ How do I adjust the sweetness level?

Sweetness can be tailored by adding 1–2 teaspoons of honey or simple syrup, depending on personal taste preferences.

→ Is cinnamon essential in this beverage?

The cinnamon adds a warming spice that complements the roasted hojicha, but it can be adjusted or omitted based on your flavor preference.

→ What is the best way to chill the tea quickly?

After steeping, refrigerate the brewed tea for about 10 minutes or allow it to cool to room temperature before serving over ice.

→ Can the milk be frothed for a different texture?

Frothing the milk before adding creates a café-style drink with a light, creamy foam topping, enhancing the texture and experience.