We’ve all been there – craving that perfect cup of Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea but not wanting to leave the house or spend $5 on a single drink. This soothing blend combines the refreshing zing of citrus with the calming essence of mint and the natural sweetness of honey, creating a beverage that’s both energizing and relaxing.
Originally known as the “Medicine Ball” among Starbucks fans, this popular tea became an official menu item due to overwhelming customer demand. The drink’s popularity stems from its reputation as a comforting remedy for cold symptoms, though we love it year-round for its delicious flavor profile.
Making this copycat version at home is surprisingly simple and costs a fraction of the café price. We’ll show you how to recreate this beloved beverage using ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store, giving you the freedom to customize the sweetness and strength to your personal taste.
Ingredients
Creating this beloved Starbucks copycat requires simple ingredients you likely already have at home. We’ve organized everything into three categories to make your shopping and preparation effortless.
For the Tea Base
- 1 Jade Citrus Mint tea bag (or green tea with citrus)
- 1 Peach Tranquility tea bag (or chamomile tea)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup steamed milk (any variety)
For the Honey Citrus Mint Blend
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon fresh mint leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried mint)
- 1 small slice fresh lemon (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder (for additional warmth)
- 1 cinnamon stick (for stirring and flavor)
- Extra honey packets (for serving)
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
Making our homemade Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea requires minimal equipment that most home kitchens already have. We use basic tools that simplify the brewing process and ensure consistent results every time.
Tea Brewing Essentials
- Medium saucepan for heating water
- Two separate mugs or heat-resistant glasses for steeping
- Fine-mesh strainer to remove tea leaves and mint
- Measuring spoons for precise honey and juice amounts
- Liquid measuring cup for water portions
Milk Preparation Tools
- Small saucepan for heating milk
- Milk frother or French press for creating foam
- Whisk as alternative for manual frothing
Serving and Garnish Items
- Large mug or mason jar for final presentation
- Stirring spoon for mixing ingredients
- Citrus juicer or reamer for fresh lemon and lime juice
- Sharp knife for cutting citrus slices
- Cutting board for prep work
Optional Enhancement Equipment
- Kitchen scale for precise tea measurements
- Thermometer to monitor water temperature
- Honey warming dish for easier pouring
- Muddler for releasing mint oils
These tools help us create the perfect balance of flavors while maintaining the proper temperature throughout the brewing process. Most importantly we can achieve professional results without investing in expensive specialty equipment.
Instructions
We’ll guide you through the simple process of creating this comforting beverage at home. Our method replicates the Starbucks experience while allowing you to customize the flavors to your preference.
Step 1: Prepare the Tea Base
We begin by bringing 1 cup of water to a rolling boil in our medium saucepan. Remove the pan from heat and add both tea bags: one Jade Citrus Mint tea bag and one Peach Tranquility tea bag. Allow the tea to steep for 3-5 minutes to extract the full flavor profile.
Remove the tea bags and gently squeeze them to release any remaining liquid. Pour the concentrated tea into your large serving mug. The tea base provides the foundation for our honey citrus mint blend.
Step 2: Heat the Lemonade
We pour 1/2 cup of lemonade into our small saucepan over medium heat. Warm the lemonade until it reaches a gentle simmer but avoid bringing it to a full boil. This process takes approximately 2-3 minutes.
The heated lemonade adds the signature citrus tang that makes this drink so refreshing. We maintain a low simmer to preserve the delicate citrus flavors while creating the perfect drinking temperature.
Step 3: Combine and Steep
We pour the heated lemonade directly into the mug containing our tea base. Add 1/2 cup of steamed milk to the mixture and stir gently with our spoon. The milk creates a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the citrus.
Drop 2-3 fresh mint leaves into the mixture and allow them to infuse for 1-2 minutes. The mint releases its aromatic oils and adds the refreshing element that completes the flavor profile.
Step 4: Add Honey and Final Touches
We stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey depending on your sweetness preference. Start with less honey and add more to taste since the lemonade already provides natural sweetness. Mix thoroughly until the honey dissolves completely.
Garnish with a fresh lemon slice and a sprig of mint for the authentic Starbucks presentation. We serve the drink immediately while it maintains the perfect temperature. The final result delivers the same comforting warmth and balanced flavors as the original Medicine Ball.
Directions for Perfect Results
Following these essential guidelines ensures your homemade Honey Citrus Mint Tea matches the quality and flavor profile of the original Starbucks version. These techniques focus on precision and timing to create the perfect balance of flavors.
Temperature Tips
Water temperature plays a crucial role in extracting the best flavors from your tea bags without creating bitterness. We recommend heating water to 200°F for optimal steeping of both the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility teas. Boiling water can scorch delicate tea leaves and create an overly astringent taste that masks the subtle citrus and peach notes.
Steam your milk to approximately 150°F to achieve that signature creamy texture without scalding. The lemonade should reach a gentle simmer at around 180°F to maintain its bright citrus flavor while warming the drink properly. Using a thermometer ensures consistent results every time you prepare this comforting beverage.
Steeping Time Guidelines
Proper steeping time extracts maximum flavor while preventing over-extraction that leads to bitterness. We steep both tea bags together for exactly 3 minutes in the hot water for the perfect strength balance. Removing the tea bags promptly prevents the tannins from overwhelming the delicate honey and citrus flavors.
Allow the fresh mint leaves to infuse in the hot tea mixture for 2 minutes before straining. This timing releases the essential oils without creating an overpowering mint taste that competes with the other flavors. Longer steeping times can make mint taste bitter rather than refreshing.
Sweetness Adjustments
Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and adjust according to your taste preferences since honey sweetness varies by type and brand. We recommend tasting the mixture before adding the steamed milk to gauge the sweetness level accurately. Raw honey provides the most authentic flavor profile that matches the original Starbucks version.
Add honey gradually while the tea is still warm to ensure proper dissolution and even distribution throughout the drink. The natural sugars in the lemonade contribute additional sweetness so consider this when determining your honey quantity. Taste testing at each stage allows you to customize the sweetness to your exact preference.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We can prepare several components of this Honey Citrus Mint Tea recipe in advance to streamline the brewing process. The tea base benefits from advance preparation since both tea varieties develop deeper flavors when steeped properly and stored correctly.
Tea Base Preparation
Steep the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility tea bags in separate containers using our recommended 3-minute steeping time. Allow the brewed teas to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. Store both tea bases in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. We recommend labeling each container with the tea type and preparation date for easy identification.
Honey Citrus Blend Storage
Fresh lemon and lime juice maintain optimal flavor when prepared up to 24 hours ahead. Combine the honey with freshly squeezed citrus juices in a sealed jar and refrigerate until ready to use. This mixture actually improves in flavor as the honey dissolves completely and melds with the citrus notes.
Mint Preparation
Wash and dry fresh mint leaves thoroughly before storing them in damp paper towels inside a sealed container. Properly stored mint leaves remain fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator. We suggest bruising the mint leaves gently just before adding them to the tea for maximum flavor release.
Assembly Timeline
| Component | Advance Prep Time | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Tea Base | 10 minutes | 3 days |
| Honey Citrus Blend | 5 minutes | 24 hours |
| Fresh Mint | 3 minutes | 5 days |
| Complete Assembly | 3 minutes | Serve immediately |
Quick Assembly Method
Heat the pre-made tea base gently in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Warm the lemonade separately to prevent temperature shock when combining ingredients. Add the prepared honey citrus blend to your serving mug first, then pour in the heated tea base and lemonade. Top with steamed milk and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices for the authentic Starbucks experience.
Customization Options
We can easily adapt this beloved Starbucks drink to accommodate different dietary preferences and seasonal flavors. Our customization options allow you to create the perfect version that suits your taste and health goals.
Caffeine-Free Version
We recommend replacing the Jade Citrus Mint tea with chamomile or rooibos tea for a completely caffeine-free experience. Peach Tranquility tea already contains minimal caffeine from white tea, so we can substitute it with pure chamomile or fruity herbal blends like peach ginger tea. Our caffeine-free version maintains the same soothing properties while eliminating any stimulating effects.
For enhanced flavor without caffeine, we suggest adding extra fresh mint leaves during steeping or incorporating a pinch of dried chamomile flowers. These modifications create a relaxing evening beverage that delivers the same comforting warmth as the original Medicine Ball.
Sugar-Free Alternatives
We can create a sugar-free version using natural sweeteners that complement the citrus and mint flavors perfectly. Stevia drops work exceptionally well, requiring only 3-4 drops to achieve the desired sweetness level. Our preferred alternative includes monk fruit sweetener, which provides clean sweetness without any bitter aftertaste.
For those avoiding artificial sweeteners entirely, we recommend using fresh orange juice instead of lemonade to reduce added sugars. This substitution maintains the citrus profile while incorporating natural fruit sugars. We can also increase the fresh mint quantity to enhance natural flavor complexity without requiring additional sweetening agents.
Seasonal Variations
We transform this classic drink throughout the year by incorporating seasonal ingredients that enhance its appeal. During autumn months, we add warming spices like cinnamon sticks, nutmeg, or cardamom pods to create a cozy fall version. Our winter variation includes fresh ginger slices and a dash of vanilla extract for extra warmth during cold months.
Spring brings opportunities to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme alongside the traditional mint. We celebrate summer by adding fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries during the final steeping process. These seasonal adaptations maintain the drink’s core identity while providing exciting flavor variations throughout the year.
For holiday celebrations, we incorporate festive elements like star anise, orange peel, or even a splash of pomegranate juice to create special occasion versions that impress guests while maintaining the drink’s therapeutic qualities.
Storage and Reheating
We recommend storing your homemade Honey Citrus Mint Tea properly to maintain its vibrant flavors and quality. The prepared tea can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container or covered pitcher. Our experience shows that separating the components yields better results for longer storage.
Individual Component Storage:
- Tea Base: Store steeped tea mixture in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Honey Citrus Blend: Keep in a sealed container for up to 24 hours at room temperature
- Fresh Mint: Wrap in damp paper towels and refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Steamed Milk: Use immediately or store separately for up to 2 days
Reheating Methods
Stovetop Method
We prefer reheating on the stovetop for optimal flavor retention. Pour the chilled tea into a medium saucepan and heat over medium low heat until steam begins to rise. Avoid boiling as this can make the tea bitter and break down the delicate citrus oils. Stir gently while heating to distribute flavors evenly.
Microwave Method
Transfer the tea to a microwave safe mug and heat in 30 second intervals. We recommend stirring between intervals to ensure even heating and prevent hot spots. Stop heating when the tea reaches your desired temperature.
Fresh Addition Tips
Add fresh mint leaves and honey after reheating to preserve their bright flavors. The lemon slice garnish should always be fresh rather than reheated. Steam new milk separately if you prefer a creamier texture rather than reheating the entire mixture.
Storage Temperature Guidelines
| Component | Storage Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Prepared Tea | 35-38°F | 3 days |
| Honey Blend | Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Fresh Mint | 35-38°F | 5 days |
| Steamed Milk | 35-38°F | 2 days |
Quality Indicators
We advise checking for any off odors or changes in color before reheating stored tea. Fresh mint should remain vibrant green without wilting or dark spots. The honey citrus blend may separate slightly during storage but will remix when stirred.
Conclusion
We’ve shown you how to recreate Starbucks’ beloved Honey Citrus Mint Tea from the comfort of your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and basic equipment you’ll have a soothing drink that rivals the original Medicine Ball.
The beauty of making this tea at home lies in your ability to control every aspect – from sweetness levels to seasonal variations. Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving something warm and comforting you now have the knowledge to create this perfect blend whenever you want.
By following our step-by-step guide and pro tips you’ll save money while enjoying a drink that’s perfectly customized to your taste preferences. So grab your tea bags honey and fresh mint – it’s time to start brewing your own version of this Starbucks favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea?
The Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea, originally called the “Medicine Ball,” is a soothing hot beverage that combines citrus, mint, and honey flavors. It became an official menu item due to its popularity as a comforting remedy for cold symptoms. The drink features a blend of green tea, herbal tea, steamed milk, lemonade, and honey.
What ingredients do I need to make this drink at home?
You’ll need two types of tea (Jade Citrus Mint or green tea with citrus, and Peach Tranquility or chamomile tea), water, steamed milk, honey, fresh lemon juice, fresh lime juice, fresh mint leaves, and lemonade. Optional add-ins include vanilla extract, ginger powder, cinnamon stick, and extra honey packets for customization.
What equipment is required to make the homemade version?
Basic kitchen tools include a medium saucepan, mugs for steeping, fine-mesh strainer, measuring spoons, small saucepan for milk, milk frother, large serving mug, stirring spoon, and citrus juicer. Optional enhancement equipment like a kitchen scale and thermometer can help achieve professional results without expensive specialty tools.
How do I prepare the Honey Citrus Mint Tea step by step?
Start by steeping both tea bags in boiling water for 3 minutes. Heat lemonade to a gentle simmer separately. Combine the steeped tea with heated lemonade and steamed milk. Add fresh mint leaves and honey to taste. Garnish with a lemon slice and mint sprig for the authentic Starbucks experience.
What are the optimal temperatures and steeping times?
Heat water to 200°F for optimal tea extraction and steam milk to approximately 150°F for creamy texture. Steep tea bags for exactly 3 minutes and infuse fresh mint leaves for 2 minutes. Start with 1 tablespoon of honey and adjust gradually, considering the natural sweetness from lemonade.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components in advance. The tea base can be steeped and refrigerated for up to 3 days. The honey citrus blend keeps for 24 hours, and fresh mint leaves store for up to 5 days. For quick assembly, simply heat the pre-made components and combine them.
How can I customize this drink for different dietary needs?
For a caffeine-free version, replace Jade Citrus Mint tea with chamomile or rooibos tea. Use sugar-free alternatives like stevia or monk fruit instead of honey. You can also add seasonal variations like warming spices in autumn, fresh herbs in spring, berries in summer, or festive elements for holidays.
How should I store and reheat leftover tea?
Store prepared tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep individual components separate for optimal freshness. Reheat using stovetop or microwave methods, but add fresh mint and honey after reheating to preserve their flavors and maintain the drink’s vibrant taste profile.
