Have you ever craved some cozy comfort in a cup? The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, has taken the world by storm as the go-to drink for soothing sore throats, warming the soul, or simply indulging in a deliciously refreshing blend of teas. While it’s a staple on the Starbucks menu, you don’t have to make a trip to your nearest store to enjoy it. With this easy recipe, you can make your own Medicine Ball at home.
This guide will walk you through exactly what you need, step-by-step instructions, and tips to put your unique twist on this fan-favorite drink.
What Is a Starbucks Medicine Ball?
The Starbucks Medicine Ball is a warm, comforting tea-based beverage made with a blend of two teas, lemonade, honey, and hot water. Popularized for its soothing qualities, it’s perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather or simply in the mood for something warm and tasty. Starbucks officially added it to their menu as “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” due to its overwhelming popularity.
Its ingredients are simple yet powerful:
- Jade Citrus Mint green tea
- Peach Tranquility herbal tea
- Steamed lemonade
- Honey
- Hot water
At its core, the Medicine Ball is comforting, slightly sweet with citrusy notes, and has a burst of minty freshness. Now, with the recipe outlined below, you can recreate this Starbucks classic without leaving your kitchen.
Benefits of the Medicine Ball
Why has this drink become so popular beyond just taste? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Comforting and Warming: The hot beverage is perfect for chilly days or when you need a pick-me-up.
- Citrus and Mint Combo: Lemon and mint combine to create a refreshing yet soothing effect, especially helpful for easing congestion.
- Natural Ingredients: With honey, tea, and lemonade, it’s an ideal drink for soothing sore throats or calming a scratchy voice.
While it’s not a substitute for medicine, its flavorful blend can certainly brighten your mood and provide comforting relief.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the Starbucks Medicine Ball at home, you’ll need just a few essential ingredients. Most of these can be easily found at your supermarket or in your pantry:
Teas
- Jade Citrus Mint Tea (or any green tea with mint and citrus notes)
- Peach Tranquility Tea (or a fruity herbal tea blend with peach or tropical flavors)
Additional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup of steamed lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- 1–2 teaspoons of honey
- 1 cup of hot water
- Optional: Fresh lemon slices or extra mint leaves for garnish
If you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, you can skip the Jade Citrus Mint tea and double up on the Peach Tranquility tea.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Starbucks Medicine Ball
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to brew your Starbucks-inspired Medicine Ball.
Step 1. Brew the Tea
Start by boiling about a cup of water. Once it reaches a gentle boil, pour it into a mug.
Add one Jade Citrus Mint tea bag and one Peach Tranquility tea bag to your mug. Allow the teas to steep for about 2–3 minutes for a light flavor or up to 5 minutes for a more intense brew.
Step 2. Steam or Heat the Lemonade
Heat 1/4 cup of lemonade in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm and slightly steamy. For convenience, you can also microwave it in a mug for 15–20 seconds. If you prefer a more natural option, freshly squeezed lemonade works wonders.
Step 3. Sweeten It with Honey
Add 1–2 teaspoons of honey to your tea. Stir it well until the honey dissolves completely. The honey not only sweetens the drink but also enhances its soothing properties. Adjust the amount to your taste.
Step 4. Combine Everything
Pour the warm steamed lemonade into your mug with the steeped tea. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the flavors.
Step 5. Optional Garnishes
For an extra touch of sophistication, garnish your Medicine Ball with a fresh slice of lemon or a sprig of mint. This not only makes it Instagram-worthy but also complements the drink’s flavor profile.
Step 6. Sip and Enjoy
Take a moment to enjoy the aroma, and savor your homemade caffeine-free comfort drink!
Tips for Customizing Your Medicine Ball
Part of the fun of making the Medicine Ball at home is customizing it to suit your personal preferences. Here are some ideas to try:
- Make It Stronger: Add an extra tea bag (of either Jade Citrus Mint or Peach Tranquility) for a stronger flavor.
- Add a Peppermint Kick: Add a drop or two of peppermint extract for a more intense minty burst.
- Swap the Sweetener: Use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey for alternative sweetness.
- Alcohol-Infused Version (for adults): Add a splash of whiskey for a hot toddy-style experience.
Why Make It at Home?
While picking one up at Starbucks is convenient, recreating the Medicine Ball at home offers several benefits:
- Cost-Effective: Save money by making multiple servings for the cost of just one Starbucks order.
- Customizable: Adjust flavors, sweetness, and tea strength to your liking.
- Healthier Options: Control what goes in your drink, from using organic ingredients to adjusting sugar levels.
Making your own Starbucks Medicine Ball is also a fun and creative way to enjoy a comforting beverage exactly how you like it.
Bringing a Piece of Starbucks to Your Kitchen
The Starbucks Medicine Ball is more than just a drink; it’s an experience of comfort and delight, especially when you need a little extra warmth in your day. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy it anytime, customize it to your taste, and even share it with friends and family.
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a stressful workday, or the middle of cold season, this soothing blend is sure to provide the comfort you crave. Now grab your favorite mug, follow these steps, and bring home a little Starbucks magic.
