Copycat Starbucks ‘Medicine Ball Tea’ Is the Cure for a Sore Throat

What started as something on the secret menu can now be made at home for a fraction of the price.
Copycat Starbucks ‘Medicine Ball Tea’ Is the Cure for a Sore Throat
This soothing cup mixes citrus mint and peach teas with lemonade and a touch of honey. (Alex Lepe/TNS)
1/16/2024
Updated:
1/19/2024
0:00
With cold and flu season upon us again, a warming elixir is my drink of choice for the next few months. This healing mug of tea is inspired by a Starbucks customer favorite and is made with brewed peach and citrus mint teas, lemonade, and honey. It’s a cozy drink that tastes even better when you can skip the drive-thru and make it at home.

What Is Starbucks ‘Medicine Ball Tea’?

Medicine Ball Tea or “The Coldbuster” started as a secret menu item, but the Starbucks HQ must be paying attention. Now it’s available to order off the menu as Honey “Citrus Mint Tea,” but it’s a relief (and more affordable) to know how to make this mug of tea at home—especially when you are feeling less than your best.

Copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea

Serves 2
Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 3/4 cup lemonade
  • 1 bag citrus mint tea, such as Tazo Zen
  • 1 bag peach-flavored tea, such as Celestial Seasonings Country Peach Passion
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 drop peppermint extract (optional)
  • Lemon slices, for serving
Directions

1. Bring 3/4 cup water and 3/4 cup lemonade to a simmer in a small saucepan. Remove from the heat and add 1 citrus mint tea bag and 1 peach-flavored tea bag. Cover and steep for 3 minutes.

2. Discard the tea bags, add 1 tablespoon honey, and stir until dissolved. Add 1 drop peppermint extract if desired. Divide the tea between 2 mugs and serve immediately with a thin slice of lemon.

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Patty Catalano is a contributor to TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to [email protected]. Copyright 2022 Apartment Therapy. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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