As the seasons shift and the air turns crisp, there is nothing quite as comforting as the deep, toasted notes of Hōjicha. While we love a classic latte, we wanted to create something that feels like a celebration of winter citrus and warm spices.
This Spiced Orange Hōjicha is our latest obsession. By pairing the earthy, cacao-like undertones of roasted green tea with a homemade aromatic syrup infused with fresh orange peel, rosemary, and cinnamon. You get a drink that is sophisticated, fragrant, and deeply soothing.
Whether you’re looking for a caffeine-light afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy evening treat, this recipe will keep your hands warm!
Ingredients:
5g Hōjicha powder
50ml Hot water(70C)
150ml Milk
20ml Spiced orange syrup
100g Sugar
1pc Cinnamon stick
1sprig Fresh rosemary
Cinnamon powder for garnish
Make a spicy orange syrup.
In a sterilised jar, combine orange peel, cinnamon stick, fresh rosemary & sugar. Make sure everything is evenly coated with sugar. Store in a cool dry place for 24 hours. Once all sugar is melted, filter out the solids and you have yourself a spicy orange syrup.
Make a hōjicha base.
Sift hōjicha powder into a bowl and add water (70 C). Mix well by sweeping in circular motions and patting down to break up clumps. Then whisk with your chasen (bamboo whisk) in zig-zag motion until creamy, smooth and completely incorporated.
Making your spiced orange hōjicha.
Heat up your choice of milk in a mug in the microwave for about 1 minute. In the same mug, add the spiced orange syrup and whisk with an electric whisk to create a nice silky froth. Pour the hōjicha into the same mug and garnish with cinnamon powder to finish.
Tips:
Patience is Key: Letting your syrup sit for the full 24 hours ensures the rosemary and orange fully combine with the sugar.
Whisking Technique: Use a zig-zag motion with your whisk to ensure your Hōjicha base is perfectly smooth and clump-free before adding your milk.
The Froth: If you don't have an electric whisk, a French press or a simple jar (shaken vigorously) works wonders for getting that silky foam!
