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Dreaming of that refreshing Starbucks Aesthetic sip but want a healthier twist? This Iced Green Tea Lemonade brings the iconic Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks right to your kitchen. Perfect for summer gatherings or daily refreshment, it’s one of those Healthy Starbucks Drinks you’ll crave year-round.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll adore how this copycat matches Starbucks Drinks Recipes without the drive-thru line. It’s naturally lower in sugar, packed with antioxidants from green tea, and customizable for your taste. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and ready in minutes!
- Quick prep: Under 10 minutes active time
- Refreshing combo: Tangy lemonade meets smooth green tea
- Versatile serving: Great iced or as a base for cocktails.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling water | 2 cups | For steeping tea |
| Green tea bags | 5 | Recommended brand for best flavor |
| Cold water | 2 cups | Filtered for clarity |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup | Fresh squeezed preferred |
| Simple syrup | 2 tbsp | Or adjust sugar to taste |
| Ice | As needed | Plenty for chilling |
| Fresh mint leaves | Optional | For garnish |
Equipment Needed
Make prep effortless with these essentials:
- Chef’s knives for lemon slicing
- Measuring cups and spoons set for precision
- Mixing bowls for lemonade base
- Kitchen utensils like spoons and strainers
- Tall glasses for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Green Tea
Bring 2 cups boiling water to a rolling boil using your pots. Add 5 green tea bags and steep per package directions (usually 3-5 minutes). Remove bags gently without squeezing to avoid bitterness key for that smooth Starbucks Aesthetic! Let cool to room temperature.
Step 2: Make the Lemonade Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk ¼ cup fresh lemon juice, 2 cups cold water, and 2 tablespoons simple syrup. Taste and adjust sweetness. Fresh lemons give the brightest flavor, mimicking those Pretty Drinks from Starbucks Secret Menu Drinks.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
Mix equal parts cooled green tea and lemonade in a pitcher. Fill glasses with ice, pour over, and garnish with smacked mint leaves for aroma. Serve immediately for peak refreshment one of the top Starbucks Orders To Try!
Pro Tips for Perfection
- Tea strength: Steep longer for bolder flavor, but don’t overdo it.
- Sweetness control: Start low with simple syrup; add more as needed.
- Make-ahead: Brew tea and lemonade separately; combine fresh.
- Variations: Add cucumber slices for spa vibes or a splash of peach nectar.
- Storage: Keeps in fridge up to 2 days; stir before serving.
Use a peeler for perfect lemon zest twists and a colander strainer basket if using fresh lemons with pulp.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
Approximate values for 1 cup serving:
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 0g
FAQ: Iced Green Tea Lemonade
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, but fresh tastes brighter and is healthier. Squeeze with a garlic press repurposed for citrus!
Is this lower calorie than Starbucks?
Absolutely half the sugar makes it one of the best Healthy Starbucks Drinks.
How do I make it stronger?
Double the tea bags or reduce water slightly.
Can I hot version this?
Skip ice and serve warm for cozy fall vibes.
What’s the best green tea brand?
Look for high-quality loose-leaf or bags like the linked ones for authentic flavor.
This simple recipe rivals Cold Starbucks Drinks while saving money and calories. Perfect for your next picnic or home happy hour!
PrintIced Green Tea Lemonade: Starbucks Secret Menu Copycat
Refreshingly healthy Starbucks copycat Iced Green Tea Lemonade combining antioxidant-rich green tea with zesty lemonade. Perfect summer drink that’s easy to make at home.
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT0M
- Total Time: PT10M
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 cups boiling water
5 green tea bags
2 cups cold water
¼ cup lemon juice fresh or bottled
2 tablespoons simple syrup or sugar
ice
Fresh mint leaves optional garnish
Instructions
1. To brew the tea add the green tea bags to boiling water and let steep for the amount of time in your package instructions. Remove tea bags without squeezing them and discard. Let the tea cool.
2. For the lemonade, mix together the lemon juice, cold water, and the simple syrup.
3. To serve, mix together the lemonade and green tea in equal parts. Add ice to the mix. Pour into a glass with additional optional ice. Smack a few mint leaves in your hands and add to the glass.
Notes
Squeezing tea bags can result in bitter tea. Adjust sweetness to taste. Stores in fridge up to 2 days.