Save Delicate, buttery cookies infused with the nutty, smoky notes of hojicha roasted green tea—a unique twist on a classic treat. These Japanese-inspired cookies offer a sophisticated flavor profile that is both earthy and sweet, making them a perfect companion for your afternoon tea.
Save The earthy depth of roasted green tea transforms a simple butter cookie into something sophisticated and warm. These treats are easy to prepare and bring a touch of Japanese tea culture into your home kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp hojicha powder (roasted green tea powder)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, hojicha powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Step 4
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 5
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated—do not overmix.
- Step 6
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Step 7
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure your butter is properly softened at room temperature for the best creaming results. When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix only until no streaks of flour remain to maintain a tender cookie texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a bolder tea taste, increase the hojicha powder to 3 tablespoons. You can also customize these cookies by folding in white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added crunch and sweetness.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these aromatic cookies with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of Hojicha tea to double down on the roasted flavor. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream.
Save These Hojicha Cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the unique, earthy flavors of roasted green tea in a familiar and comforting dessert format. Enjoy your homemade Japanese-inspired treats!
Recipe FAQ
- → What does hojicha taste like in cookies?
Hojicha brings distinctive nutty, smoky, and roasted notes to the cookies. Unlike matcha's grassy brightness, hojicha offers earthy depth reminiscent of roasted coffee or cocoa, creating a warm, comforting flavor profile that pairs beautifully with butter.
- → Can I substitute matcha powder for hojicha?
You can substitute matcha, but the flavor will change significantly. Matcha provides vibrant, grassy, and slightly bitter notes while hojicha delivers mellow, roasted, toasty flavors. The baking process remains identical, though matcha may produce a more vibrant green color.
- → How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when edges turn lightly golden, approximately 10-12 minutes at 350°F. Centers may appear slightly underbaked but will firm as they cool. For crispier cookies, extend baking by 1-2 minutes watching carefully to prevent overbrowning.
- → Why did my dough turn out too dry or crumbly?
Dry dough typically results from measuring flour incorrectly or overmixing. Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off rather than scooping directly. If dough seems crumbly, add 1 teaspoon of milk or water and mix gently just until combined.
- → Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Wrap dough tightly in plastic and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Let chilled dough soften slightly at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before scooping and baking, adding 1-2 extra minutes to baking time if baking from frozen.
- → What ingredients can I add to enhance the flavor?
White chocolate chips complement hojicha's roasted notes beautifully. Chopped macadamia nuts, pecans, or toasted sesame seeds add lovely crunch. For extra depth, consider folding in chopped dark chocolate or swirling in a bit of tahini.