How to Make Iced Hojicha Latte (Dairy-Free & Vegan-Friendly Options Recipe)

Iced hojicha latte is a smooth and refreshing Japanese drink made by combining roasted green tea, milk, sweetener, and ice. It’s perfect for hot days or as a soothing afternoon treat.

Hojicha itself is a unique type of Japanese green tea made by roasting tea leaves at a high temperature, which transforms their colour to a rich brown and gives the tea a warm, nutty aroma with notes of caramel and toasted grains.

Compared to matcha, which has a bold, grassy flavour and vibrant green hue, hojicha offers a mellower, naturally sweeter taste with very little bitterness, making it ideal for those who find traditional green tea too strong.

One of hojicha’s most appreciated features is its low caffeine content. The roasting process significantly reduces caffeine, so it’s a gentle option that can be enjoyed in the afternoon or evening without disrupting sleep. You can read more about the characteristics and wellness potential of this tea in our hojicha guide.

To make an iced hojicha latte at home, all you need are a few basic ingredients: hojicha powder or loose-leaf tea, milk (dairy or plant-based), a sweetener like maple syrup or honey, and ice. If using powder, whisk it with a small amount of warm water (around 175F) until smooth.

If you’re using loose-leaf hojicha, steep it in hot water for about 30 to 60 seconds—this short brew time preserves the tea’s natural sweetness and prevents bitterness. Then simply pour the tea over ice, add your milk and sweetener, stir, and enjoy.

For a vegan or dairy-free version, plant-based milks like oat, almond, or soy work well. Oat milk, in particular, pairs beautifully with hojicha’s roasted flavour thanks to its natural sweetness and creamy texture.

To get the best results, use high-quality hojicha powder or loose leaves, preferably from Japanese-grown tea that’s been carefully roasted for rich aroma and deep flavour.

If you’re exploring other Japanese wellness drinks, check out our list of 10 super healthy Japanese beverages. Hojicha also pairs wonderfully with traditional Japanese sweets, especially wagashi made with red bean or chestnut, which enhance the toasty notes of the tea.

You can discover great pairing options in our article on famous wagashi to try!