Starbucks medicine ball recipe

Introduction

There’s something magical about a warm cup of tea that soothes the soul, especially during cold or rainy days. If you’ve ever found yourself sniffling or searching for a comforting drink at Starbucks, chances are you’ve heard of their famous Medicine Ball Tea. Originally a secret menu item, this delightful concoction became so popular that it earned an official spot on their menu under the name “Honey Citrus Mint Tea.”

Why is this tea so beloved? It’s the perfect blend of tangy lemonade, soothing honey, and invigorating teas, with just a hint of mint. Whether you’re battling a cold, craving a caffeine boost, or simply in need of a cozy pick-me-up, this tea has you covered. Making it at home is not only cost-effective but also lets you customize it to your taste. Trust me, once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever paid $5 for it.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about crafting your own Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea at home!

What is Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea?

If you’ve been curious about the Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe, this is the perfect place to explore how this soothing drink came to be.

Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea, now officially known as “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” started as a customer creation on the secret menu. Its popularity quickly skyrocketed, thanks to its comforting and refreshing taste.

Here’s what makes it special:

  • Key Ingredients: A harmonious blend of Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea, Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, hot lemonade, water, and honey.
  • Optional Twist: A touch of peppermint extract or fresh mint for an added kick.
  • Caffeine Content: The green tea provides a mild caffeine boost (about 20 mg per serving), while the herbal tea is caffeine-free, making it perfect for any time of day.

This drink is especially popular during flu season for its soothing qualities. The combination of lemon, honey, and mint helps ease sore throats and congestion, while the warmth provides instant comfort. Try another warm and festive beverage like our Christmas Cosmo Cocktail Recipe.

Why Make Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea at Home?

The Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy a comforting drink that’s cost-effective and customizable at home.

While grabbing one at your local Starbucks is convenient, there are plenty of reasons to recreate this tea in your kitchen:

  • Cost-Effective: A single Medicine Ball Tea at Starbucks can cost upwards of $5. Making it at home significantly reduces the cost, especially if you’re drinking it regularly.
  • Customizable: At home, you can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences. Want it sweeter? Add more honey. Prefer it tangier? Squeeze in extra lemon juice. Looking for a caffeine-free version? Swap out the green tea.
  • Health Benefits: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures you’re getting the maximum nutritional benefits.

Making it at home also means you can share it with family and friends, turning a comforting drink into a shared experience. Discover refreshing alternatives such as the Hugo Spritz Recipe.

Ingredients Needed for Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe

Creating this tea at home requires just a few simple ingredients:

Key Ingredients:

  • Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea: A refreshing green tea with hints of mint and lemon. Substitute with your favorite mint green tea if unavailable.
  • Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea: A caffeine-free herbal tea with notes of peach and chamomile. Other peach herbal teas work just as well.
  • Lemonade: Use fresh-squeezed lemonade for the best flavor, but store-bought works in a pinch.
  • Honey: Opt for organic honey for a natural sweetness and additional health benefits.
  • Optional Add-Ons: Peppermint extract or fresh mint leaves for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients for Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea, including lemonade, honey, Teavana tea sachets, lemon slices, and mint.

Substitutions:

  • For a sugar-free version, replace honey with stevia or agave syrup.
  • Use decaffeinated green tea for a caffeine-free option.

Tip: Discover the benefits of incorporating honey into your beverages for an added health boost.

How to Make Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea at Home

Mastering the Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect cup every time.

Follow these easy steps to recreate this soothing tea:

  1. Prepare the Base: Heat equal parts lemonade and water in a saucepan or kettle until it reaches approximately 190°F (just below boiling).
  2. Add Honey: Stir in a teaspoon of honey until fully dissolved.
Close-up of honey being drizzled into a cup of tea, with tea sachets steeping in the background.
  1. Steep the Teas: Place one sachet each of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea into a large mug. Pour the hot lemonade-water mixture over the tea bags.
  2. Optional Twist: Add a drop of peppermint extract or a sprig of fresh mint for extra flavor.
  3. Steep Time: Let the tea steep for 2-4 minutes. Remove the tea bags and enjoy!
Freshly prepared Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea in a clear glass mug, garnished with mint and lemon.

Pro Tip: Learn how to brew the perfect cup of green tea at home to ensure the best flavor.

Tips for Customizing Your Medicine Ball Tea

Take your Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe to the next level with these creative customization tips.

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are a few ideas to enhance and personalize it to your liking:

  • Caffeine-Free Version: Use decaf green tea or skip it altogether and double up on herbal tea. For a truly relaxing drink, chamomile tea can also be a great addition to replace the green tea entirely.
  • Sweetener Options: Replace honey with agave syrup, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for those watching their sugar intake. If you’re looking for a unique flavor, try using coconut sugar for a caramel-like sweetness.
  • Flavor Enhancements: Get creative with these tasty upgrades:
    • Add a slice of fresh ginger for a spicy kick that also boosts immune support.
    • Use lavender honey or a drop of vanilla extract for a floral or creamy twist.
    • Include a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, making it a perfect drink for the holidays.
    • Squeeze in some fresh orange juice alongside the lemonade for a citrusy boost.
  • Temperature Tweaks: Prefer iced drinks? Brew the tea as instructed and let it cool, then pour it over ice for a refreshing summer version. You can also serve it chilled with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy treat.

With these variations, you can tailor the Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea to suit any mood or season, making it a versatile staple in your beverage repertoire. For more inspiration, check out this detailed Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea guide.

Health Benefits of Medicine Ball Tea

This tea isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with an impressive array of health benefits that make it a favorite for wellness enthusiasts and tea lovers alike:

  • Immune Support: Lemon provides a generous dose of vitamin C, a vital nutrient that strengthens the immune system and helps ward off illnesses. Meanwhile, honey’s antibacterial properties offer natural support in fighting infections and soothing irritated throats.
  • Soothing Properties: The warmth of this tea relaxes muscles and promotes better circulation, while the combination of mint and honey works wonders for easing sore throats and clearing nasal congestion. It’s a go-to remedy during flu season or on chilly days when comfort is key.
  • Low Caffeine: With just 20 mg of caffeine per serving, the Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea provides a mild energy boost without causing jitters. This makes it suitable for any time of day, even as an evening wind-down drink if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
  • Hydration Boost: The tea’s hot liquid base hydrates and soothes the body, aiding digestion and helping maintain energy levels throughout the day.
  • Relaxation Benefits: Chamomile notes from the Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea promote relaxation and may help reduce stress levels, making this drink a calming addition to your routine.

Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply seeking a flavorful beverage with added health perks, this tea delivers on all fronts. Pair it with a cozy blanket and a good book for the ultimate self-care moment.

Explore our collection of soothing herbal tea recipes for more wellness options.

Common Questions About Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea

1. Can I use other teas?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different green and herbal teas to suit your taste.

2. Is it good for colds?

Absolutely. The combination of lemon, honey, and warm liquids is great for soothing cold symptoms.

3. How much caffeine does it have?

The Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea contains about 20 mg of caffeine, while the Peach Tranquility Tea is caffeine-free.

Serving and Storage Tips

  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with light snacks like biscotti, shortbread cookies, or even a slice of lemon loaf for an elevated tea experience. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside honey-drizzled scones, buttery croissants, or a piece of rich chocolate cake to complement the tea’s soothing flavors. If serving to guests, consider setting up a small tea tray with a variety of accompaniments to turn the experience into a cozy ritual.
  • Serving Presentation: Use a large, clear glass mug to showcase the tea’s warm golden hue and add a sprig of mint, a slice of lemon, or even a cinnamon stick for garnish. For a festive touch during holidays, serve with a small candy cane hanging on the rim or a dusting of powdered sugar on the plate.
  • Storage: If you have leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, ensuring not to boil, or in the microwave in 30-second increments. Stir occasionally to ensure the honey blends smoothly and the tea retains its delightful flavor. Alternatively, enjoy it cold as a refreshing iced drink by serving over ice and adding a splash of sparkling water.

Printable Recipe Card

Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea Recipe

Author: Virile Recipes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving
Category: Warm Beverages
Cuisine: American-Inspired

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup lemonade
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 sachet Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea
  • 1 sachet Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea
  • Optional: Peppermint extract or fresh mint

Instructions:

  1. Heat lemonade and water until hot but not boiling.
  2. Stir in honey until dissolved.
  3. Pour over tea bags in a mug.
  4. Steep for 2-4 minutes. Enjoy!

Leave a Comment