Vanilla Hōjicha Latte

A smooth, toasty latte that pairs Wolf Ember Hōjicha with vanilla and milk. The roasted tea brings naturally warm, nutty notes, making this an easy alternative when you want something mellow and comforting without the stronger flavor of coffee.

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons Wolf Ember Hōjicha, or the amount recommended for one strong cup
• 3/4 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup milk of choice
• 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons vanilla syrup, to taste
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon

Step-by-step instructions

1. Steep the Hōjicha.
Add the Hōjicha to 3/4 cup hot water and steep according to the package directions. Brew it slightly stronger than usual so the tea flavor stays noticeable after the milk is added.

2. Warm the milk.
Heat the milk until steaming but not boiling.

3. Add the vanilla.
Stir the vanilla syrup into the warm milk.

4. Froth the milk.
Use a handheld frother, whisk, or French press to create a soft layer of foam.

5. Build the latte.
Strain the Hōjicha into a mug, then slowly pour in the vanilla milk. Spoon the foam over the top.

6. Finish and serve.
Add a very light dusting of cinnamon if desired and serve warm.

Iced version

Steep the Hōjicha strong, then let it cool completely. Fill a glass with ice, stir the vanilla syrup into the tea, then pour cold milk over the top. Finish with cold foam if desired.

Wolf Ember tip

Hōjicha already has naturally roasted, almost caramel-like notes, so vanilla works best when it supports the tea instead of overpowering it. Start with less syrup and add more only if needed.