Introduction
Medicine Ball Tea—also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea—is Starbucks’ worst-kept secret for soothing sore throats and boosting immunity. This beloved drink isn’t officially on the menu, but its popularity has turned it into a staple for fans of the Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks. Combining peach tranquility tea, jade citrus mint tea, steamed lemonade, and honey, it’s a cozy, sweet escape in a cup. Whether you’re battling a cold or just craving a warm hug in beverage form, this drink delivers. Today, you’ll learn how to make it at home (without the Starbucks markup!), customize it to your taste, and discover why it’s earned cult status among Starbucks Orders To Try.
Nutritional Benefits
While Medicine Ball Tea isn’t a magic cure-all, its ingredients pack immune-booting benefits:
– Lemonade: Vitamin C for inflammation support
– Honey: Antibacterial properties and natural sweetness
– Mint: Aids digestion and clears sinuses
– Peach tea: Antioxidants for overall wellness
Here’s a nutritional snapshot per 16 oz serving (approximate):
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Sodium | 10mg |
Note: Values vary based on honey/lemonade ratios.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The magic lies in the tea blend and balance of citrusy sweetness. Here’s how to replicate it—or tweak it for dietary needs:
| Ingredient | Role | Possible Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Jade Citrus Mint tea | Earthy base with minty freshness | Green tea + fresh mint leaves |
| Peach Tranquility tea | Fruity, floral sweetness | Hibiscus tea or peach herbal tea |
| Steamed lemonade | Tangy, velvety texture | Hot water + lemon juice + agave |
| Honey | Natural sweetener | Maple syrup or vegan honey |
Equipment Needed
1. Kettle or saucepan (for heating water/lemonade)
2. Mug (12–16 oz)
3. Tea infuser or strainer
4. Spoon (for stirring in honey)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting Medicine Ball Tea at home takes 5 minutes—and no barista skills:
1. Steep the teas: Boil water and steep 1 bag each of jade citrus mint and peach tranquility tea for 3–4 minutes.
2. Heat the lemonade: Warm ½ cup lemonade (store-bought or homemade) until steaming. For a Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks hack, use equal parts lemonade and hot water.
3. Combine & sweeten: Pour teas into a mug, add steamed lemonade, and stir in 1–2 tbsp honey.
4. Infuse flavor (optional): Add a lemon wedge or fresh mint for extra brightness.
Troubleshooting & Pro Tips
❌ Problem: Too tart/not sweet enough
✅ Fix: Adjust honey to taste or add a splash of agave.
❌ Problem: Mint flavor overpowering
✅ Fix: Shorten steeping time for jade citrus mint tea (2 mins max).
✨ Pro Tips:
– Use filtered water for cleaner-tasting tea.
– For an extra wellness boost, add a slice of fresh ginger.
– Double the batch to prep ahead—perfect for chilly mornings!
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Store-bought lemonade simplifies prep, but here’s how to maximize freshness:
– Refrigerate: Keep steeped tea (without lemonade/honey) for up to 3 days.
– Freeze lemonade: Portion homemade lemonade into ice cubes for quick use.
– Assemble fresh: Add honey and steamed lemonade only before serving for optimal flavor.
Conclusion
Medicine Ball Tea is more than a trendy drink—it’s a customizable wellness ritual that brings Starbucks’ cozy charm home. Whether you’re sipping it for immunity perks or as a comforting treat, mastering this Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks gem means you’ll never overpay for it again. Craving more barista-worthy recipes? Try my secret Starbucks recipes for copycat Frappuccinos and seasonal sips!
FAQ
Q: Does Medicine Ball Tea have caffeine?
A: Yes—jade citrus mint tea contains green tea (caffeinated). Use caffeine-free peach herbal tea for a nightly version.
Q: Can I make it iced?
A: Absolutely! Cool steeped tea, add cold lemonade, honey, and ice.
Q: Is Starbucks’ version vegan?
A: No (honey isn’t vegan), but swap honey for agave syrup to make it plant-based.
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