Hojicha Is the Next Matcha: What It Is, Caffeine, Taste & Easy Hojicha Latte

Hojicha—roasted Japanese green tea—is quietly becoming the next big thing after matcha. It’s toasty, naturally smooth, and friendly on caffeine. At LunaMatcha, we were early to bring Aroma Rich hojicha powder to the U.S. market so you can whisk café-quality hojicha lattes at home in seconds.

What Is Hojicha?

Hojicha (ほうじ茶) is Japanese green tea that’s gently roasted. The roast transforms green tea’s grassy notes into warm aromatics—think toasted caramel, light cocoa, and nutty malt—while softening bitterness. Unlike brewed leaf tea, hojicha powder is a finely milled form (similar to matcha in texture) that lets you whisk the tea directly into water or milk for fuller flavor and silky lattes.

What Does Hojicha Taste Like?

A well-made hojicha tea tastes cozy and mellow. Expect aromas of roasted barley, brown sugar, and a hint of smoke with a clean finish. It’s delicious hot for relaxing evenings and brilliant iced for a smooth, dessert-like treat.

Does Hojicha Have Caffeine? How Much Caffeine Is in Hojicha?

Hojicha is generally lower in caffeine than matcha and far lower than coffee, which is why many people enjoy it in the afternoon or evening. Exact caffeine varies by leaves, roast, and preparation. If you’re caffeine-sensitive, hojicha is a smooth, gentle option compared to typical coffee drinks.

Why Use Hojicha Powder Instead of Tea Bags?

• Bigger flavor, faster: Powder dissolves into your drink—no steeping or straining.
• Barista-friendly: Perfect for hojicha latte, frappes, and baking (cookies, cakes, ice cream).
• Consistent: Every scoop tastes the same, whether hot or iced.

How to Make a Hojicha Latte (Hot or Iced)

This is the most searched “how to make hojicha latte” style recipe—simple and reliable.

Ingredients

• 1–2 tsp LunaMatcha Aroma Rich hojicha powder
• 30–50 ml hot water (about 160–175°F / 70–80°C)
• 8–10 oz milk (dairy or oat/almond)—steamed for hot, cold for iced
• Sweetener to taste (maple, simple syrup, or honey)

Steps (Hot)

1. Whisk hojicha powder with the hot water until smooth and frothy.
2. Add steamed milk and sweetener. Optional: a pinch of sea salt.
3. Top with microfoam. Sip the cozy, roasted goodness.

Steps (Iced)

1. Whisk hojicha powder with 30–50 ml hot water to dissolve.
2. Fill a glass with ice, pour in cold milk, then the hojicha concentrate.
3. Sweeten and stir. Try a brown-sugar hojicha latte for a boba-shop vibe.

Meet Aroma Rich: LunaMatcha’s Hojicha Powder

Aroma Rich is our finely milled hojicha powder made for barista-easy drinks and recipes at home. Expect a smooth roast, balanced sweetness, and a clean finish—great for everyday lattes, hot or iced. Because it’s powder, you’ll get consistent flavor and gorgeous color without steeping.

Hojicha vs. Matcha: Which One’s for You?

• Flavor: Matcha is vibrant and vegetal; hojicha is toasty and mellow.
• Caffeine: Matcha is moderate; hojicha is typically lower.
• When to drink: Matcha for focused mornings; hojicha for calm afternoons and evenings.

FAQs

What is hojicha?

Hojicha is roasted Japanese green tea. Roasting creates gentle caramelized notes and a smooth finish. With hojicha powder, you whisk it directly into water or milk for instant tea and lattes.

Does hojicha have caffeine?

Yes, but generally less than matcha and much less than coffee. Many people find it evening-friendly, though individual sensitivity varies.

What does hojicha taste like?

Toasty, lightly sweet, and comforting—notes of roasted grain, brown sugar, and cocoa.

How much caffeine is in hojicha?

It varies by leaves, roast, and preparation. Powdered drinks tend to feel stronger than light steeped tea, but still gentler than coffee.

How do I make a hojicha latte?

Whisk Aroma Rich with a splash of hot water, then add milk (hot or iced) and sweeten to taste. See the recipe above.

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Disclaimer: Caffeine amounts depend on tea material and preparation. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, adjust serving size and timing to your needs.