How many calories in a Hojicha tea latte? A Comprehensive Nutritional Guide

November 30, 2025 •

3 min read

Did you know the calories in a hojicha tea latte can vary drastically from as low as 35 to over 200, depending almost entirely on the type of milk and sweetener used? This wide range means understanding the components is essential for anyone tracking their intake or customizing a healthier version of this popular roasted green tea beverage.

Quick Summary

The calorie count of a hojicha tea latte is highly dependent on its ingredients, primarily the milk and sweeteners. The hojicha powder itself is very low-calorie, so selecting unsweetened plant-based milks keeps the drink light. Whole milk and added sugars substantially increase the total, as do pre-made cafe versions.

Key Points

Variable Calories: The total calories in a hojicha tea latte depend heavily on the type of milk and sweetener used, not the roasted tea powder itself.
Low-Calorie Option: A simple homemade version using unsweetened almond milk and no sugar can be as low as 35-50 calories.
High-Calorie Additions: Using whole milk (approx. 150 kcal/cup) and added sugars or syrups (approx. 20 kcal/tsp) can raise the total to 160-180 calories or more.
Low-Calorie Base: Hojicha powder itself is very low in calories, with estimations around 5-10 calories per teaspoon.
Store-Bought vs. Homemade: Cafe-made lattes often contain more sugar and higher-fat milks, generally resulting in a higher calorie count than a customized homemade version.
Customization is Key: The best way to manage calories is to make your hojicha latte at home, allowing you to select low-fat or plant-based milk and control the amount of sweetener.
Low Caffeine: Due to the roasting process, hojicha powder has a low caffeine content, which means it can be enjoyed later in the day without affecting sleep.

The soothing, nutty flavor of a hojicha tea latte is a welcome alternative to coffee for many. While the roasted green tea base is naturally very low in calories, the final nutritional impact is determined by what you add to it. The primary variables are the type of milk and the quantity of sweeteners, making it a highly customizable drink for various dietary needs.

The Low-Calorie Hojicha Base

The foundation of the drink, hojicha powder, is made from roasted green tea leaves, and contains very few calories. In fact, most sources estimate a single teaspoon of hojicha powder to contain only 5 to 10 calories. This means that if you are watching your caloric intake, the tea itself is not the factor to worry about. The roasting process, which gives hojicha its distinctive flavor, also significantly lowers its caffeine content compared to other green teas, making it a perfect evening drink.

How Your Milk Choice Impacts Calories

The biggest variable in your hojicha latte's calorie count is the milk you choose. Whole milk can contribute a significant amount of fat and sugar, while unsweetened plant-based alternatives offer a much lighter option.

Milk Type Calorie Breakdown (per 1 cup serving):

Whole Milk: Approximately 150 calories. A popular choice for a creamy, rich latte, but with the highest calorie count. Lactose also adds to the sugar content.
Oat Milk: Around 100-140 calories for a sweetened version, but unsweetened options are lower. Oat milk provides a naturally creamy texture that pairs well with hojicha's earthy notes.
Soy Milk: A 250ml serving of a pre-made soy milk hojicha latte can be around 139 calories, indicating a moderate calorie count for plain soy milk.
Almond Milk (Unsweetened): The lowest calorie option, at approximately 30-40 calories per cup. A great choice for those seeking a light, flavorful drink without the extra fat.

The Impact of Sweeteners

For many, a latte isn't complete without a touch of sweetness. While delicious, sweeteners add calories and can quickly push the total count higher.

Sugar or Honey: A single teaspoon adds about 20 calories. This can add up quickly if you like your drink on the sweeter side.
Maple Syrup: Similar to honey, adds around 52 calories per tablespoon. Used for a different flavor profile.
Low-Calorie Sweeteners: Options like monk fruit or stevia provide sweetness with virtually no calories, making them ideal for a healthier alternative.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought: A Comparison

The preparation method also influences the final calorie count. Store-bought lattes, especially from chains, are often pre-sweetened and use higher-calorie ingredients for a more decadent taste, while homemade versions allow for complete control.


Feature	Homemade Hojicha Latte (low-calorie)	Store-Bought Hojicha Latte (standard)
Milk	Unsweetened Almond Milk	Whole Milk or Sweetened Milk
Sweetener	None or zero-calorie substitute	Syrup, sugar, or honey
Estimated Calories (12oz)	~35-50 kcal	~150-200+ kcal
Portion Size	Controlled	Often larger, standardized servings
Customization	Full control over every ingredient	Limited customization options

How to Create a Healthy, Low-Calorie Hojicha Latte

Making your own hojicha latte at home is the best way to control its nutritional profile. Here is a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients: 1 tsp hojicha powder, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, optional zero-calorie sweetener.
Preparation: Sift the hojicha powder into a mug to avoid clumps. Add a small splash of hot water (not boiling) and whisk briskly until a smooth, thin paste forms. The roasting process of hojicha allows it to be less temperature-sensitive than matcha.
Combine: Heat your unsweetened almond milk until warm and frothy. Pour the milk into the mug with the hojicha paste, stirring to combine. For an iced version, use cold milk and add ice.
Sweeten (Optional): Add a zero-calorie sweetener if desired, and stir well.
Enjoy: Enjoy your creamy, low-calorie, and flavorful hojicha latte.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the number of calories in a hojicha tea latte is not fixed. It is a dynamic number that depends entirely on your choice of milk and sweetener. By using unsweetened plant-based milks and forgoing added sugars, you can enjoy a delicious, creamy beverage that is extremely low in calories. Conversely, opting for whole milk and sugary syrups will result in a much more indulgent and calorie-dense treat. Understanding these factors allows you to tailor your hojicha latte to perfectly suit your taste and dietary goals. For those interested in the broader health aspects of this tea, exploring the unique compounds created during its roasting process, such as pyrazine, can offer further insights into its relaxing properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but very few. A single teaspoon of hojicha powder contains only about 5 to 10 calories. The vast majority of calories in a hojicha latte come from the milk and sweetener added.

Unsweetened almond milk is typically the lowest calorie option, adding only 30-40 calories per cup. Oat milk and soy milk are also good, but can be higher depending on if they are sweetened.

According to nutritional information for Starbucks in Singapore, a hot hojicha tea latte contains 83 kcal per 100ml. The total calories for a full serving would be significantly higher, depending on the size and regional recipe. A different source estimates a standard Starbucks hojicha latte at 151kcal.

Yes, adding sweeteners like sugar, honey, or maple syrup can significantly increase the calorie count. For example, one teaspoon of sugar adds about 20 calories. Using a sugar-free alternative is the best way to keep calories low.

A hojicha latte can be very healthy if made with low-calorie milk (like unsweetened almond milk) and no added sugar. In this form, it is low in calories, high in flavor, and rich in antioxidants.

To make a low-calorie hojicha latte, use a high-quality hojicha powder, unsweetened almond or soy milk, and a zero-calorie sweetener if desired. Whisk the powder with a little hot water before adding the warmed milk.

Hojicha powder is roasted green tea leaves. The roasting process reduces its caffeine and keeps the tea itself from containing significant calories, meaning the roasted green tea base is naturally very light.