Green Tea | July 28, 2025 | Lillian Yu

Hojicha Powder vs. Hojicha Loose Leaf: Discovering the Differences in Taste, Texture, and Use

Hojicha, the beloved roasted green tea from Japan, is known for its comforting aroma, low caffeine content, and gentle, toasty flavor. At Senbird, we offer two pure and distinct forms of hojicha—hojicha powder and hojicha loose leaf—each crafted for a different experience in taste, texture, and preparation.

But here’s what sets our Hojicha Powder (Homura) apart: unlike most hojicha powders made from roasted sencha, ours is made from roasted tencha, the same tea leaf used to create ceremonial-grade matcha. This results in a richer, deeper flavor that stands out in both lattes and desserts. Whether you’re craving a flavorful latte or a smooth evening brew, here’s how they compare.

Texture & Taste: Bold vs. Balanced

Hojicha Powder – Hojicha Homura

Made from stone-ground roasted tencha, our Hojicha Homura offers a bold, smoky taste with hints of cocoa and roasted hazelnut. The powder whisks into a smooth, creamy texture—perfect for hojicha lattes, hojicha bubble tea, and baking desserts.

Rich umami and roasted aroma
Smooth texture when whisked
Best for lattes, smoothies, and dessert recipes

Hojicha Loose Leaf – Hojicha Yuu

Hojicha Yuu is a traditional loose-leaf hojicha made from carefully roasted leaves, resulting in a mellow, reddish brown infusion with toasty and earthy notes. It’s ideal for those seeking a calming cup at any time of day, especially after meals or during a quiet evening wind-down.

Smooth and balanced toasty flavor
Naturally low in caffeine
Great for hot or iced tea, with multiple steeps

Hojicha comes in both loose leaf and powder form, each with unique uses and flavors. Want to learn in more depth how to prepare it or choose the right one for you? Discover more in our complete Hojicha Guide.

How to Prepare Each Type of Hojicha

To Brew Hojicha Powder (Homura):

Scoop 1 tsp of powder into a bowl or mug
Add 2 oz of warm water (~175°F / 80°C)
Whisk until smooth and frothy
Optional: add steamed milk for a café-style hojicha latte

To Brew Hojicha Loose Leaf (Yuu):

Add 1 tsp of tea leaves (approx. 3g) per 8 oz cup
Pour boiling water over the tea leaves
Steep for 30 seconds to 1 minute
Strain and enjoy up to 2–3 infusions

hojicha-teapot-roasted-green-tea-brew

When to Use Hojicha Powder vs. Hojicha Loose Leaf

Hojicha Homura is a kitchen companion for creative tea lovers. Its bold, smoky flavor and fine powder form make it ideal for culinary use—from cozy lattes to baked treats. Whether blended into a smoothie or folded into batter, Hojicha powder brings depth and richness to every creation. Looking for inspiration? Try these hojicha-infused desserts from our tea kitchen:

Hojicha Tiramisu: A creamy, layered dessert with a roasted twist
Mochi Hojicha Brownies: Fudgy, chewy, and full of umami
Chocolate Cream Cheese Hojicha Cookies: A toasty, slightly savory indulgence

Hojicha Yuu is a gentle and versatile tea, perfect for daily sipping or creative drinks. Naturally low in caffeine with a mellow, toasty aroma, it’s excellent hot or cold, and ideal for those who love to steep more than one cup.

For something playful and refreshing, try making Milk and Honey Hojicha Bread using Hojicha Yuu—an easy way to enjoy this comforting tea with a fun twist.

Which Hojicha Roasted Green Tea is Right for You?

Craving a café-style drink or culinary creativity? Choose Hojicha Homura (Tea Powder)
Seeking a soothing, traditional cup? Reach for Hojicha Yuu (Loose Leaf Tea)

Hojicha, roasted green tea is a beloved tea in Japan and all around the world. Whichever you choose, both invite a gentle pause—a moment to reconnect and savor simplicity.