Hojicha Green Tea Cookies

Experience the unique and comforting flavor of Hojicha Cookies. These delicate, buttery treats are infused with the nutty, smoky notes of roasted green tea, offering a sophisticated Japanese-inspired twist on a classic dessert that is both simple to bake and incredibly rewarding to eat.

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Whether you are a fan of traditional Japanese flavors or simply looking to expand your cookie repertoire, these hojicha-infused bakes provide a wonderful earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter.

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

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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

For the best texture, ensure your butter is truly softened at room temperature before you start creaming it with the sugar. Using a wire rack for the final cooling stage is essential to keep the bottoms from becoming soggy.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a more intense tea profile, you can increase the hojicha powder to 3 tablespoons. For added texture and sweetness, try folding in a handful of white chocolate chips or some finely chopped nuts before baking.

Serviervorschläge

These cookies are wonderful when served alongside a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of roasted green tea to mirror the smoky notes in the dough. They make for an elegant addition to any afternoon tea tray.

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Enjoy these aromatic Hojicha Cookies as a unique snack. Their earthy, roasted flavor profile and perfectly golden edges make them a standout treat for any occasion.

Rinse produce, fill pots, and clean cookware easily with flexible spray options for everyday cooking tasks.

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Recipe FAQs

→ What does hojicha taste like?

Hojicha has a distinctive nutty, smoky flavor with subtle earthy notes. Unlike other green teas, the roasting process reduces bitterness and creates a warm, toasty profile that pairs beautifully with butter and sugar in baked goods.

→ Can I substitute matcha for hojicha powder?

While possible, the flavor will be quite different. Matcha is more grassy, vegetal, and bitter, whereas hojicha offers a mellower, roasted character. If using matcha, reduce the amount slightly as its flavor is more intense.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. The flavors actually develop and intensify slightly after the first day.

→ Why did my cookies spread too much?

This usually happens if the butter was too soft or the dough wasn't chilled. Ensure butter is softened to room temperature but not melting. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the scooped dough for 15 minutes before baking.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time. Frozen dough keeps well for up to 3 months.