Hojicha Tiramisu Recipe | Easy Japanese No-Bake Dessert

Name: Hojicha Tiramisù Recipe | Easy No-Bake Japanese Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 tbsp hojicha loose tea leaves or 2 hojicha tea bags; 1 cup hot water (just below boiling); 1 cup heavy cream (chilled); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened); 16–20 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi); 1/2 cup hojicha tea (cooled), for dipping; 1 tbsp hojicha powder (for dusting)

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Today I’m back with another no-bake dessert of my choice that I hope you’ll love. It combines the rich creaminess of classic tiramisu with the nutty, smoky flavor of roasted Japanese green tea, the delicious Hojicha Tiramisu recipe. Made with authentic hojicha tea, velvety mascarpone cream, and delicate ladyfinger biscuits, this Japanese-Italian fusion dessert is not only incredibly easy to make but also Instagram-worthy and perfect for entertaining guests or a cozy treat at home.

Unlike traditional tiramisu that uses espresso, this version is infused with brewed hojicha. This low-caffeine green tea offers a roasted profile—making it ideal for kids and adults sensitive to caffeine. Those who like Asian fusion recipes or tea-flavored desserts can try this creative no bake dessert idea.

This tea-based dessert which is one of the best Japanese treats is simple preparation and a high-end taste, it’s the perfect dessert for dinner parties, holidays, or special occasions.

🍵 Why You’ll Love This Hojicha Tiramisu Recipe

This Hojicha Tiramisu recipe is the perfect blend of roasted green tea flavor and rich mascarpone cream. It’s light on caffeine, delicious on the palate, and easy enough for anyone to make.

✅ Unique Japanese-Italian Fusion

This dessert marries the best of both worlds—roasted hojicha tea and classic tiramisu—for a modern Asian fusion treat that’s as elegant as it is delicious.

✅ No Baking Required

This easy no-bake dessert recipe requires no oven time—perfect for summer parties or lazy days when you want to impress with minimal effort.

✅ Low Caffeine, Family-Friendly

Hojicha tea is naturally low in caffeine, making this dessert perfect for both kids and adults. A guilt-free evening indulgence!

✅ Great for Parties & Meal Prep

Make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and serve chilled—it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert that gets even better overnight.

✅ Gourmet Results with Simple Ingredients

All you need is hojicha powder, ladyfingers, mascarpone, and cream. The result? A café-style dessert made at home.

👉 Ready to try this trending tea-flavored dessert recipe? Treat yourself to a cozy, creamy delight with this modern take on tiramisu!

🍵 What is Hojicha?

Hojicha is a unique variety of Japanese green tea that is roasted at high temperatures, giving it a warm, toasty, and nutty flavor profile. Unlike matcha or sencha, hojicha is reddish-brown in color and contains significantly less caffeine, making it ideal for evening desserts or tea-based recipes like this hojicha tiramisù.

Originating in Kyoto, hojicha is now a rising star in the world of tea-flavored desserts. Thanks to its naturally sweet, smoky notes and digestive-friendly properties, it pairs beautifully with creamy bases like mascarpone cheese. Many nutrition-conscious foodies love it as a low-caffeine tea alternative that supports relaxation and gut health.

Rich in antioxidants and catechins
Low in bitterness compared to matcha
Naturally decaffeinated – perfect for kids & sensitive drinkers
Available as loose leaf or finely ground hojicha powder

Use high-quality hojicha powder for a smooth, deep flavor in lattes, cakes, and tiramisu.

Hojicha Tiramisu Recipe – Easy Japanese No-Bake Dessert You’ll Love! 10 — Roasted Hojicha Tea – Warm, Nutty & Naturally Low Caffeine

👉 Compared to matcha, hojicha offers a mellower, smokier flavor and is less grassy. That’s what makes it a perfect star for creamy desserts like tiramisu — especially for those who love tea but want a twist!

🛒 Ingredients Needed for Hojicha Tiramisu

This easy hojicha tiramisu recipe combines the bold, roasted flavor of hojicha tea with creamy mascarpone and delicate ladyfingers for a truly irresistible Japanese-Italian fusion dessert. All the ingredients listed below are available online or in Asian supermarkets, making this no-bake dessert recipe simple and accessible.

🍵 Hojicha Brew

2 tbsp hojicha loose tea leaves or 2 tea bags
1 cup hot water (just below boiling)
1 tbsp hojicha powder (for dusting)

🥄 Mascarpone Cream Filling

1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)

🧁 Use high-quality mascarpone for the creamiest texture and flavor.

🍪 For Assembly

16–20 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
1/2 cup brewed hojicha tea (cooled)
Optional: 1 tbsp coffee liqueur (for depth)

🥂 Want a boozy twist? Add a splash of liqueur to the tea dip.

🍰 How to Make Hojicha Tiramisu (Step-by-Step Guide)

This easy Hojicha Tiramisu Recipe is a delicious no-bake dessert that fuses Japanese roasted green tea with classic Italian tiramisu elements. Learn how to make this tea-flavored tiramisu at home in just a few simple steps! It’s perfect for high tea, dinner parties, or when you crave a unique Asian fusion dessert.

🥄 Step 1: Brew the Hojicha Tea

In a small saucepan or kettle, steep 2 tablespoons of loose hojicha tea (or 2 tea bags) in 1 cup hot water (just under boiling) for 4–5 minutes. Let it cool completely. This will replace espresso in traditional tiramisu and infuse the dessert with a rich, roasted aroma.

🧁 Step 2: Whip the Cream

In a chilled bowl, beat 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This adds a fluffy, creamy texture that makes the tiramisu irresistibly light and luxurious.

🧀 Step 3: Make the Mascarpone Mixture

In another bowl, gently fold the whipped cream into 8 oz softened mascarpone cheese until smooth and well-blended. This creates a luscious filling for your hojicha tiramisu layers. Add a splash of brewed tea for more depth.

🍪 Step 4: Dip and Layer the Ladyfingers

Quickly dip ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi) into the cooled hojicha tea. Do not oversoak. Layer them in a glass or ceramic dish. Add a thick layer of the mascarpone cream, then repeat the dipping and layering process.

Layering ladyfingers in hojicha tiramisu

❄️ Step 5: Chill & Dust with Hojicha Powder

Cover and chill your hojicha tiramisu in the fridge for at least 6 hours (or overnight) to let the flavors meld. Before serving, dust the top generously with hojicha powder or cocoa for a professional touch.

Tip: Reduce the Hojicha brew to half a cup before dipping. For extra flavor, add a spoonful of condensed milk or a dash of Japanese whiskey!

🌿 Health Benefits & Diet Details

This Hojicha Tiramisu recipe isn’t just delicious—it comes with several health perks and fits into a variety of balanced lifestyle diets. Made with roasted Japanese green tea, this dessert is lighter in caffeine and provides beneficial antioxidants, making it a smarter indulgence for tea lovers and health-conscious foodies.

🍵 Low Caffeine, High Calm

Hojicha is naturally low in caffeine—ideal for evening desserts and perfect for those sensitive to stimulants.

💪 Antioxidant Rich

Roasted green tea like hojicha contains powerful antioxidants that support your immune system and reduce inflammation.

🥛 No Refined Sugars (Customizable)

Easily adapt this tiramisu with coconut sugar or monk fruit for a refined sugar-free treat that aligns with clean eating.

🥗 Diet Friendly Options

Make it gluten-free with GF ladyfingers or dairy-free with plant-based mascarpone and cream. Perfect for low-carb & flexible diets.

📖 Learn more about the benefits of roasted green tea

🌟 Expert Tips for the Best Hojicha Tiramisu

These expert tips ensure a creamy, flavorful, and picture-perfect no-bake Japanese dessert every time. Ideal for food bloggers, tea lovers, and dessert enthusiasts alike!

🍵 Use High-Quality Hojicha Powder

Opt for premium hojicha powder to get a rich, roasted flavor. It’s the foundation of a deeply aromatic Japanese tea dessert.
🥄 Don’t Oversoak the Ladyfingers

Quickly dip each ladyfinger in cooled hojicha tea. Oversoaking makes the layers mushy in this tea-flavored tiramisu.
🧊 Chill Overnight for Better Flavor

Refrigerate your tiramisu for at least 6–8 hours. Overnight chilling intensifies the hojicha tea flavor and firms the texture.
🍯 Add a Hint of Vanilla or Honey

Boost sweetness with a drizzle of honey or vanilla extract. It balances the earthy notes of roasted green tea tiramisu.
👩‍🍳 Use Mascarpone at Room Temperature

For the creamiest result in your no bake tiramisu, ensure mascarpone is soft and blends well with whipped cream.
🌿 Make It Vegan or Gluten-Free

Swap in coconut cream and vegan mascarpone for a vegan hojicha tiramisu. Use GF ladyfingers for dietary needs.

📝 Pro Tip: For the most mouthwatering results, use a mix of hojicha brew and powder for a double dose of flavor.

Suggested: Keto Vegetarian Recipes

Variations & Substitutes – Give Your Hojicha Tiramisu a Creative Twist

For variations like vegan Hojicha Tiramisu, or gluten-free Asian desserts, there are delicious variations that cater to every preference, perfect for food bloggers, dessert lovers, and healthy eaters.

🍵 Matcha Tiramisu

Swap hojicha with premium matcha powder to create a vibrant, antioxidant-rich version. Ideal for green tea lovers. Use ceremonial-grade matcha for the best flavor and color.

Buy Matcha Powder ➝

🌿 Vegan Hojicha Tiramisu

Replace mascarpone with cashew cream or coconut cream and use vegan ladyfingers. Opt for plant-based milk steeped with hojicha for a dairy-free twist.

Explore Vegan Tiramisu ➝

🚫 Gluten-Free Tiramisu

Use gluten-free ladyfingers or almond flour cake slices soaked in hojicha tea. A great option for health-conscious or celiac-friendly diets.

Gluten-Free ➝

🍸 Boozy Hojicha Tiramisu

Add a splash of coffee liqueur or dark rum to the tea soak for a party-friendly dessert. The roasted tea blends beautifully with bold liquors.

See More Boozy Desserts ➝

👶 Kid-Friendly Version

Skip the liqueur and reduce the tea strength for a dessert that’s perfect for children. Add a light cocoa or vanilla dusting for extra fun.

Discover Kids’ Desserts ➝

💬 Tip: These variations help boost your recipe’s versatility, making it suitable for audiences searching for healthy tiramisu alternatives, low caffeine desserts, Asian fusion sweets, and dairy-free treats.

Suggested: Cinco De Mayo Snacks

🍽️ How to Serve & Store Hojicha Tiramisu

Serving and storing your Hojicha Tiramisu the right way ensures the best flavor and texture every time. These tips will help maintain its creamy richness and aromatic roasted tea essence.

📌 Best Ways to Serve Hojicha Tiramisu

❄️ Serve chilled directly from the fridge for the best texture and flavor.
🍵 Pair with hojicha latte, iced matcha, or black tea for a cozy tea-time dessert.
🎨 For a sophisticated presentation, use individual glass jars, ramekins, or parfait cups.
✨ Dust with extra hojicha powder or cocoa powder before serving for visual appeal.
🍓 Add toppings like fresh berries, shaved chocolate, or edible flowers for garnish.

🧊 Storing Hojicha Tiramisu the Right Way

🕒 Refrigerate for up to 4–5 days in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
❌ Avoid storing at room temperature as the mascarpone and cream can spoil quickly.
🧊 To freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Store for up to 1 month.
🌙 Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best consistency.
🍽️ Great for make-ahead entertaining, meal prepping desserts, or afternoon tea spreads.

Related: Best Baklava Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions – Hojicha Tiramisu

🍵 What is Hojicha and why use it in tiramisu?

Hojicha is a roasted Japanese green tea with a nutty, smoky flavor and naturally low caffeine. It’s a perfect alternative to espresso in classic tiramisu, creating a unique tea-flavored dessert that’s mellow and aromatic. This makes it ideal for a no bake Japanese tiramisu variation that’s both refreshing and light.

🕒 Can I make Hojicha Tiramisu in advance?

Hojicha tiramisu tastes even better when made 12–24 hours in advance. This allows the roasted green tea flavor to infuse into the creamy mascarpone layers, enhancing the dessert’s taste and texture. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for parties or weeknight dinners.

🍰 Can I make this Japanese tiramisu without mascarpone?

Yes! While mascarpone adds a rich texture, you can substitute it with cream cheese, whipped tofu, or a dairy-free alternative for a vegan hojicha tiramisu. Just ensure the mixture stays light and creamy to maintain the tiramisu texture.

🍶 Where can I buy authentic Hojicha tea or powder?

You can purchase hojicha powder or loose tea leaves online from trusted sellers like Amazon, Ippodo Tea, or local Japanese grocery stores. Look for organic or ceremonial-grade hojicha for the best flavor in desserts.

🧊 Can I freeze Hojicha Tiramisu for later?

Yes! Hojicha tiramisu can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 1 month. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Freezing makes it a perfect prep-ahead dessert option for holidays or gatherings.

🌿 Is Hojicha Tiramisu suitable for kids and caffeine-sensitive individuals?

Definitely. Hojicha is low in caffeine due to its roasting process, making it a safe and flavorful option for children and those sensitive to caffeine. It offers all the depth of flavor without the buzz of traditional tiramisu with espresso.

Related: No-Bake Protein Balls Recipe

Yield: 6

Hojicha Tiramisù Recipe | Easy No-Bake Japanese Dessert

Hojicha Tiramisu is a dreamy, no-bake Japanese twist on the classic Italian tiramisu. Infused with the smoky, roasted flavor of hojicha tea, this creamy layered dessert combines mascarpone, whipped cream, and espresso-soaked ladyfingers (replaced with hojicha tea), making it an indulgent treat for tea lovers. Perfect for dinner parties, weekend cravings, or Asian-fusion dessert menus!

Prep Time 20 minutes

Chill Time 6 hours

Total Time 6 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

🟤 For the Hojicha Brew:

2 tbsp hojicha loose tea leaves or 2 hojicha tea bags
1 cup hot water (just below boiling)

🟡 For the Cream Mixture:

1 cup heavy cream (chilled)
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
8 oz mascarpone cheese (softened)

🟠 For Assembly:

16–20 ladyfinger biscuits (savoiardi)
1/2 cup hojicha tea (cooled), for dipping
1 tbsp hojicha powder (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Brew the Hojicha Tea

Steep hojicha leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Strain and set aside to cool completely.

2. Whip the Cream

In a chilled mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

3. Make Mascarpone Filling

In another bowl, gently fold whipped cream into the softened mascarpone until fully combined and smooth.

4. Layer the Tiramisu

Dip ladyfingers quickly in cooled hojicha tea (don’t oversoak). Line the bottom of a square glass dish with dipped biscuits.
Spread half of the mascarpone mixture on top. Repeat with another layer of hojicha-dipped ladyfingers and the rest of the cream.

5. Chill

Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight for best flavor and texture.

6. Serve

Dust generously with hojicha powder before serving.

Notes

Don’t oversoak the ladyfingers—quick dips keep the layers intact.
For extra hojicha flavor, mix 1 tbsp of brewed tea into the cream.
Swap hojicha powder with matcha powder for a variation.
Use gluten-free ladyfingers for a GF version.
Want a stronger dessert? Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the brew.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a cup of hojicha latte or iced matcha for a tea-themed dessert hour.
Serve in individual glasses for elegant presentation at parties or events.

Variations

Vegan Option: Use coconut whipped cream and vegan mascarpone.
Hojicha-Matcha Combo: Alternate layers with matcha-flavored mascarpone.
Chocolate Lover's Twist: Add a layer of dark chocolate ganache between the cream.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 11154Total Fat: 304gSaturated Fat: 110gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 164gCholesterol: 6660mgSodium: 4601mgCarbohydrates: 1789gFiber: 30gSugar: 11gProtein: 318g

Related: Classic Pavlova Recipe

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