Hojicha Gingerbread Cookies

These hojicha gingerbread cookies are a warm and aromatic twist on the classic holiday favorite. Infused with the earthy, roasted flavor of hojicha tea and the familiar spice blend of traditional gingerbread, these cookies offer a unique and comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes the cozy charm of gingerbread cookies and elevates it with the subtle, nutty depth of hojicha. The roasted green tea adds a toasted caramel-like flavor that balances perfectly with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. These cookies are soft in the center with crisp edges, and they hold their shape beautifully—ideal for cut-outs and decorating.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Ground ginger
Ground cinnamon
Ground cloves
Baking soda
Salt
Hojicha powder (finely ground roasted green tea)
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Molasses
Egg
Vanilla extract

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, salt, and hojicha powder. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and molasses. Beat until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
Place cookies on prepared sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Bake time: 10 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Vegan Option: Use vegan butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Spicier Kick: Add a pinch of black pepper or extra ginger for more heat.
Crispier Cookies: Roll thinner and bake a couple of minutes longer for crisp texture.
Decorated Version: Use royal icing to decorate cooled cookies for festive occasions.

Storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature. Reheat briefly in a low oven if desired for a just-baked aroma.

FAQs

What is hojicha?

Hojicha is a Japanese green tea that has been roasted, giving it a distinctive nutty, caramel-like flavor and low caffeine content.

Where can I buy hojicha powder?

You can find it at Asian grocery stores, specialty tea shops, or online.

Can I substitute matcha for hojicha?

You can, but matcha has a much more vegetal and grassy flavor, which will significantly change the taste of the cookies.

Do these cookies hold their shape?

Yes, the dough is ideal for cut-out cookies and retains crisp edges after baking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

Are these cookies sweet?

They have a balanced sweetness, complemented by molasses and the roasted flavor of hojicha.

Can I use hojicha leaves instead of powder?

No, the powder is essential for even distribution of flavor in the dough.

What’s the best molasses to use?

Unsulphured molasses is recommended for its rich, smooth flavor.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Just ensure you chill the dough thoroughly for easy rolling and cutting.

Conclusion

Hojicha gingerbread cookies bring a delightful and unexpected twist to a holiday staple. With their spiced aroma and deep, roasted flavor, they offer a sophisticated take on classic gingerbread that’s sure to impress both tea lovers and traditional cookie fans alike. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies are a must-try for the season.