Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe (Copycat): How to Make This Soothing Tea at Home

Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe served in a glass teacup with lemon slices and mint, next to a glass teapot and fresh ingredients.

You know those days when you’re feeling a little under the weather, or you just need something warm and soothing to wrap your hands around? That’s exactly when I crave the cozy comfort of a Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe, and let me tell you, making it at home is a total game changer.

The first time I tried this magical blend of minty green tea, peachy herbal tea, honey, lemonade, and a splash of lemon, I was battling a stubborn cold in the middle of a freezing New York winter. One sip and I felt like I was wrapped in a fuzzy blanket. It’s sweet, citrusy, and oh-so-comforting, like the tea version of a big warm hug.

Whether you’re fending off a sore throat, need a quick immune boost, or just want something delicious and steamy in your mug, this homemade version hits the spot. And the best part? You don’t have to leave the house or spend $5 to get it. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and now I’m sharing my favorite way to make it with you.

Why I’m Obsessed With This Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball

So what makes this cozy drink so special? Besides the fact that it feels like instant comfort in a cup, this recipe is all about the perfect balance of flavors and soothing ingredients. Here’s why I keep coming back to it, especially during chilly seasons or whenever I feel a cold creeping in:

  • You Can Make It Fancy (or Not): Add a peppermint drop, garnish with fresh mint, or keep it plain, it’s all up to you!
  • Mint + Citrus = Dream Team: The combo of Teavana Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility teas brings a bright, minty-citrus flavor with floral undertones that’s seriously comforting.
  • A Gentle Immune Boost: Thanks to the fresh lemon juice and honey, this drink not only tastes great, it also helps soothe sore throats and supports your immune system naturally.
  • Way Cheaper Than the Drive-Thru: No need to pay $5+ at Starbucks when you can make this at home in minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
  • Customizable for Any Diet: Swap the honey for agave or maple syrup to make it vegan, or use sugar-free lemonade for a lower-calorie option.

Prep Ahead Like a Pro (So You’re Not Scrambling Later)

Let’s make this even easier, shall we? If you’re planning to make this Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe (copycat) regularly, trust me, you’ll want to, here are a few things you can prep ahead to save time:

  • Pre-measure your honey and lemon juice into a small container so it’s ready to stir in.
  • Keep the tea bags together in a mason jar or tea tin so you’re not hunting for them.
  • Mix a batch of lemonade and store it in the fridge so you can warm up just what you need.
  • Have lemon slices and mint leaves prepped in the fridge for quick garnish magic.

How to Make it

Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe

Recipe by Kenza Edem
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: DrinksDifficulty: Easy
Servings

1

serving
Prep time

5

minutes
Cooking time

5

minutes
Calories

130

kcal

A soothing and refreshing blend of honey, citrus, and mint teas with a splash of lemonade, perfect for fighting off a cold or simply unwinding.

Cook Mode

Keep the screen of your device on

Ingredients

  • 1 cup hot water

  • 0.5 cup lemonade mix

  • 1 Teavana Jade Citrus Mint tea bag

  • 1 Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal tea bag

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 drops peppermint extract (optional)

  • Lemon slices and mint leaves for garnish

Directions

  • Start by heating your water until it’s just boiling, either on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Steep both the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility tea bags in the hot water for 2–3 minutes. This lets all those minty, peachy, citrusy flavors blend beautifully.
  • While your tea is steeping, gently warm the lemonade on the stovetop or microwave. You want it hot but not boiling.
  • Remove the tea bags and stir in your honey and fresh lemon juice. This is where that lovely balance of sweetness and tartness comes in.
  • Add the warm lemonade to your tea and stir it all together. If you like a little extra zip, add a drop or two of peppermint extract.
  • Pour into your favorite mug, garnish with a slice of lemon or a few mint leaves, and sip your way to comfort.

Notes

  • This recipe is caffeine-free if using herbal teas, but you can opt for caffeinated teas if you prefer.
  • You can adjust the amount of honey based on your sweetness preference.
  • For a stronger citrus flavor, increase the amount of lemonade.
  • If you can’t find the specific tea bags, you can substitute with similar herbal and citrus teas : Bigalow Mint Medley, Celestial Seasonings Country Peach Passion, and Celestial Seasonings Vitamin C Shine.

Nutrition Facts

  • Total number of serves: 1
  • Calories: 130kcal
  • Sodium: 15mg
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Sugar: 19g

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My Favorite Tricks for the Perfect Cup

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and trust me, these little tricks make all the difference! Whether you’re whipping it up during flu season or just want something warm and delicious in your hands, here are my tried-and-true tips to get it just right every time:

  • Use filtered water for the best taste, your tea will taste cleaner and more vibrant.
  • Don’t over-steep the tea, 2 to 3 minutes is perfect. Any longer and it might turn bitter, especially with the green tea.
  • Warm your mug before pouring in the tea. Just rinse it with hot water to help the drink stay cozy-hot longer.
  • Go easy on the peppermint extract, seriously, one drop is usually enough. It can overpower everything else fast!
  • Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter, more natural flavor.
  • Try local raw honey if you can, it adds a lovely depth of flavor and has natural soothing properties.
  • Double the batch if you’re feeling under the weather or want to save a cup for later. It reheats beautifully!

Fun Twists on the Classic Medicine Ball

If you’re like me, you love tweaking recipes based on what’s in your kitchen or what you’re craving. Here are a few easy and delicious ways to switch up this comforting tea:

  • Caffeine-Free Version: Swap Jade Citrus Mint with a caffeine-free mint herbal tea, perfect for winding down at night.
  • Extra Fruity: Stir in a spoonful of peach jam for added sweetness and peachy flavor.
  • Ginger Boost: Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the water while steeping for a warm, spicy kick.
  • Iced Medicine Ball: Cool the tea, pour it over ice, and top with chilled lemonade for a refreshing twist.
  • Matcha Mashup: Stir in a bit of whisked matcha (like in this Starbucks Matcha Latte) for an antioxidant-packed upgrade.
  • Flu-Buster Add-On: Mix in a pinch of turmeric and black pepper for extra cold-fighting power.

Frequently Asked Questions about Starbucks Medicine Ball

Can I use other tea brands instead of Teavana?

Absolutely! Look for a minty green tea and a peach or citrusy herbal tea. Brands like Tazo, Celestial Seasonings, and even store brands work great.

Can I make the Starbucks Medicine Ball vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute honey with agave or maple syrup.

What’s the best way to steam lemonade at home?

You can heat the lemonade in a pot on the stove or microwave it for about 30 seconds.

Can I drink this cold?

Yes, you can easily turn it into an iced drink by cooling the tea and pouring it over ice.

Is this drink good for a sore throat?

Yes, the honey and lemon are soothing, and the warm tea helps ease discomfort.

Can I prep it ahead of time?

Definitely. You can steep the tea and warm the lemonade ahead, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat gently and mix when you’re ready to sip.

Wrapping It All Up With a Warm Mug in Hand

Whether you’re feeling a little under the weather, need a cozy moment for yourself, or just love a good homemade tea, this Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe really hits the spot. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make with ingredients you might already have at home.

Give it a try the next time you need a pick-me-up, and don’t be afraid to make it your own! Play with flavors, swap in your favorite teas, or double the batch to share with a friend.

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