Friendship tea recipe with Tang is a cozy, old fashioned instant spiced tea mix made with Tang, instant tea, lemonade mix and warm spices. If you grew up in the era of church cookbooks, potlucks and handwritten recipe cards, there’s a good chance you’ve met this cozy classic Friendship Tea also known as Russian Tea.

This old-fashioned Friendship Tea recipe with Tang is a sweet, citrusy, spiced instant tea mix that you stir into hot water whenever you want a warm hug in a mug. It tastes like orange and lemon with gentle black tea and just enough cinnamon and cloves to feel like winter and holidays in one sip.

I was introduced to this instant spiced tea recipe in 90’s in a brunch time gathering in Air Force mess. A warm and cozy drink and then I got the recipe from the mess library in an old cook book and since that time this russian spiced tea is my winter essential.
I love keeping a big jar of this friendship tea mix in my pantry during the colder months. It’s perfect for last minute guests, late night something warm cravings, and it doubles as the easiest homemade holiday gift. You mix everything once, store it in jars, and then just stir a spoonful into hot water whenever you want a cup.

What Is Friendship Tea | Tang Tea / Russian Friendship Tea?

Friendship Tea is an old school American drink mix that became popular in the 1960s–80s. You’ll also see it called:

• Russian Friendship Tea
• Instant Russian Tea Mix
• Tang Tea
• Spiced Tea Mix with Tang

Despite the Russian name, this is not a traditional Russian recipe. It’s a very American pantry treat. The base is simple:

• Instant tea powder
• Tang orange drink mix
• Lemonade drink mix
• Warm spices like cinnamon and cloves

You stir all the dry ingredients together to make an instant spiced tea mix, store it in a jar, and then mix it with hot water to serve.

It’s called friendship tea because the recipe was often shared between friends, and people gifted jars of the mix at Christmas, church events, and neighborhood gatherings. It’s one of those nostalgic recipes from grandma’s kitchen.

If you’re as tea-obsessed as I am, don’t miss my other tea recipes from soothing herbal blends to classic masala chai.

Why You’ll Love This Friendship Tea Recipe

Here’s why this friendship tea recipe with Tang deserves a spot in your winter rotation:

• Instant comfort: Just add hot water. No brewing, steeping or babysitting a teapot.
• Nostalgic flavor: Sweet-tart orange and lemon, gentle black tea, warm cinnamon and cloves… it tastes like holiday season in a mug.
• Perfect holiday gift: Fill Mason jars with the mix, tie a ribbon, add a cute tag and you’ve got a thoughtful DIY food gift.
• Customizable: Easily make it decaf, lighter on sugar, or extra spiced.
• Pantry-friendly: Everything is shelf-stable and lives in your pantry. It’s ideal for winter or for gifting.

If you love cozy winter drinks, you might also enjoy my best homemade hot chocolate recipe for a rich, creamy chocolate treat.

Ingredients for Friendship Tea with Tang

Here’s what you need to make this friendship tea mix with Tang and instant tea.

• Instant tea powder: Use unsweetened instant black tea for best control over sweetness. You can use regular or decaf depending on how caffeine-friendly you want this to be.
• Tang orange drink mix: This is the classic orange-flavored powdered drink mix. It gives that bright, nostalgic orange flavor.
• Lemonade drink mix: A powdered lemonade drink mix (like the classic-style ones) adds tangy lemon flavor and some extra sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: Warm, cozy spice that makes this tea feel like fall and winter.
• Ground cloves: Cloves add a deeper, slightly spicier warmth. A little goes a long way, so measure carefully.

Note: Since We do not have instant black tea powder, I used instant lemon Iced tea mix so I skipped lemonade mix altogether.

Optional Extras & Variations

You can keep the mix classic or add a twist:

• Ground cardamom or allspice: ¼ to ½ teaspoon For a slightly more complex spice profile.
• Extra sugar: 2–4 tablespoons (if needed) Only if you’re using unsweetened lemonade mix and want a sweeter cup.
• Red hot cinnamon candies: a small handful, Some vintage versions add these for color and a stronger cinnamon note. If you do, reduce the ground cinnamon slightly so it doesn’t become overpowering.

How to Make Friendship Tea Mix

This instant Russian tea mix is incredibly easy to put together. You’ll spend more time smelling the spices than actually working.

Step by Step Instructions

• Combine the dry ingredients
  • In a large mixing bowl, add: 1 cup instant tea powder, 2 cups Tang orange drink mix, 1 cup lemonade drink mix, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • If you’re using any optional spices (cardamom, allspice) or a bit of extra sugar, add them now.
• Whisk until evenly mixed
  • Use a whisk or a large spoon to thoroughly mix everything until the color is uniform and there are no streaks of tea or spices.
  • Optional: Pulse the mixture in a food processor in small batches if you want a super-fine, more instant
  • powder. This also helps the spices distribute evenly.
• Store the mix
  • Transfer the friendship tea mix into clean, dry, airtight jars or containers.
  • Label with the name and date. I also like to write the serving directions right on the jar: Stir 1 tablespoon mix into 6–8 oz hot water.

How to Make a Cup of Friendship Tea

Now the fun part making the actual friendship tea.

• Add the mix
  • Add 1 tablespoon of friendship tea mix to a mug.
  • For a bigger mug (10–12 oz), start with 1½–2 tablespoons.
• Pour in hot water
  • Pour 6–8 oz (about ¾–1 cup) of hot water over the mix. Just-off-boiling water works best.
• Stir and taste
  • Stir until everything is dissolved.
  • Taste and adjust: Add a little more mix if you like it sweeter or stronger. Add more hot water if you want it lighter.
• Stir again halfway through
  • The spices can slowly settle at the bottom of the cup. Give your tea a quick stir halfway through drinking to bring that flavor back up.

Iced Friendship Tea

For making iced friendship tea recipe:

1. Dissolve the mix in a small amount of hot water (so it fully dissolves).
2. Top up with cold water and ice.
3. Stir well and adjust the amount of mix to taste, it makes a very refreshing citrusy iced tea.

Variations & Substitutions

This friendship tea recipe with Tang is very forgiving. Here are some ways to tweak it.

Lightened-Up / Less Sweet Friendship Tea

If you want to reduce the sweetness:

• Use a slightly smaller amount of Tang (for example, 1¾ cups instead of 2).
• Choose unsweetened lemonade mix and add just enough sugar or sweetener to match your taste.
• Start with 1 tablespoon of mix per cup of water and see if you’re happy with that before adding more.

Sugar Free or Lower Sugar Friendship Tea

You can experiment with sugar-free drink mixes:

• Use sugar free orange drink mix instead of Tang.
• Use sugar free lemonade drink mix.
• Keep the same amount of instant tea and spices.

Decaf Friendship Tea

If you want to sip this at night:

• Swap the regular instant tea for decaf instant tea.
• Everything else stays the same.
• This way you get all the cozy flavor without the caffeine jitters.

If You Can’t Find Instant Tea

Sometimes instant tea (especially unsweetened) can be hard to find. Here are a few ideas:

• Use sweetened instant tea with lemon
  • Reduce the lemonade mix a little and skip any added sugar to keep it from being too sweet.
• Brewed tea workaround
  • Prepare a strong pot of black tea (2–3 times your usual strength).
  • In your mug, stir together Tang + lemonade mix + spices first, then pour the hot brewed tea over the top.
  • It won’t be “instant mix” in a jar, but you’ll still get the same flavor profile.
• Online options
  • Look for “unsweetened instant tea” online there are generic brands that work perfectly for this recipe.

How to Gift Friendship Tea Mix (Edible Gift Idea)

One of my favorite ways to enjoy this recipe is actually to give it away.

Jar Gifts

• Spoon the friendship tea mix into small 8–12 oz Mason jars or pretty glass jars.
• Add a tight-fitting lid.
• Tie a ribbon or twine around the neck of the jar.
• Attach a simple tag with directions, for example:Friendship Tea Mix
  Stir 1 tablespoon mix into 6–8 oz hot water.
  Store in a cool, dry place. Best within 6–12 months.

How Much Does One Batch Make?

Depending on the jars you use, one batch (with the measurements in this post) will roughly fill:

• About 4–5 small jars (8 oz each), or
• 2–3 medium jars (12–16 oz each)

This makes them perfect for:

• Teacher gifts
• Neighbors
• Co-workers
• Hostess gifts
• Book club or church gathering favors

Storage & Shelf Life

Because everything in this friendship tea mix is dry and shelf-stable, it keeps well when stored properly.

• Store the mix in airtight jars or containers.
• Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from heat and moisture.
• Make sure you always use a completely dry spoon to scoop out the mix.

How long does friendship tea mix last?

• For best flavor, use within 6–12 months.
• Over time, the spices may lose a little bit of their intensity. If the mix is still dry and smells fine, you can simply use a little more in your mug to get the same flavor.

On gift jars, I like to write a simple Best by date about 9–12 months from the day I make it.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This old fashioned friendship tea recipe is made for cozy moments. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• With cookies especially shortbread, sugar cookies, or simple spiced cookies.
• Alongside quick breads like pumpkin bread, banana bread, or cranberry-orange loaf.
• As a warming drink at holiday parties or casual get-togethers.
• In a slow cooker for a crowd: add hot water and friendship tea mix to a slow cooker on warm and let guests ladle their own.

For adults, you can also:

• Add a small splash of whiskey, rum or brandy to a mug of hot friendship tea for a cozy evening treat.

Friendship Tea FAQs

More Such Recipes

• Masala Tea Recipe (Spiced Indian Chai Latte)
• Cinnamon tea recipe
• Turmeric Ginger Tea Recipe
• Golden Milk Recipe (Turmeric Latte)
• Mulled Wine Recipe
• Starbucks Medicine Ball tea recipe 
• Chai latte powder
• Tummy Tea Recipe
• Butterfly Blue Pea Iced Tea Recipe
• Hibiscus Tea

If You like this recipe and made it Please rate the recipe. It helps us to reach more people. For the Latest updates Subscribe to Rekha’s Whatsapp. You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest for more food inspirations.

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Pinwheel Sandwich Recipe

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Snowball Cookies are rich, buttery and delicious cookies that just melts in the mouth. These are also called as Mexican wedding cookies / Russian tea cakes. Snowball Cookies are one of the easiest Christmas cookies that you can try with just few ingredients. Learn to make the perfect classic version of Snowball Cookies with the help of step by step pictures and video.

If you are a beginner and want to try cookies for Christmas then this snowball cookies are just perfect for you. These are easy, simple to make and tastes so delicious that every one will fall for it. These cookies are slightly soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture and snowy white appearance.

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About Snowball Cookies

Snowball cookies, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or Russian tea cakes, are rich and delicious. They are traditionally made with simple ingredients like butter, flour, powdered sugar, and finely chopped nuts, giving them a rich, nutty flavor. These cookies are a perfect classic holiday treats.

These melt in the mouth snowball cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, or for party get together or as just sweet treats. Snowball cookies are one of the traditional cookies that is included in Christmas baking.

Classic Snowball Cookies are made using flour, butter, icing sugar, vanilla essence and pecans. These cookies are made with a simple dough then rolled to make balls and baked until golden and then rolled in icing sugar to resemble little snowballs hence the name snowball cookies.

The main difference between melting moments and the Mexican wedding cookies is : Both are round balls coated with icing sugar, both are shortbread like cookie that rely on butter as one of the main ingredients. But there are a few differences between these two cookies: one is that Mexican Wedding Cakes(Cookies) contain chopped/ground nuts, and melting moments is that it replaces some of the flour with corn flour so the cookies really "melt-in-your-mouth".

These cookies just vanish in few minutes and no wonder this cookie is popular all over the world. The taste of these cookies is just awesome and I am sure this recipe is going to be my keeper. Don't give excuses and bake these cookies, and I am sure you will love them as much as me and my family did!

Snowball Cookies Recipe Video

Similar Recipes

• Fruit Cookies
• Basic cookie dough
• Ragi cookies
• Nutella cookies
• Shortbread cookies

Snowball Cookies Ingredients

• Flour -  All purpose flour or maida is used for this recipe. For a healthy alternate you can use wheat flour too but taste and texture slightly varies.
• Icing Sugar - Icing sugar is used in these classic cookies. But you can replace it with powdered sugar too.
• Butter - Room temperature butter is used for best results. If you have cold butter, bring it to room temperature and use it.
• Nuts - Pecans are usually used but you can also use almonds or walnuts too.
• Flavoring - Vanilla essence is the only flavoring used here.

How to make Snowball Cookies Step by Step

1.Add ½ cup pecans to a baking tray. Preheat oven at 160 DEG C for 10 minutes.

2.Bake in preheated oven at 160 DEG C for 5 minutes. The nuts will become crispy.

3.Chop them finely or coarse grind it and set aside.

4.To a mixing bowl : add ½ cup butter and ¼ cup icing sugar.

5.Cream it well then add 1 teaspoon vanilla essence and ⅛ teaspoon salt.

6.Give a quick mix then add 1 cup flour.

7.Mix well with a spatula first until no dry flour is seen.

8.Add chopped pecans.

9.Mix and make a dough - do not knead. Just bring them all together using your finger tips that is just enough.

10.Cling wrap the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

11.Then remove from fridge and open. Scoop out the dough using 1 tablespoon measure for even sized cookies.

Preheat oven at 177 DEG C for 10 minutes.

12.Roll in between your palms.

13.Roll it just like a ball. Repeat to finish the dough.

14.Lay a parchment paper on the baking tray. Place the cookies 2 inch apart from each other.

15.Bake in preheated oven at 177 DEG C for 12-15 minutes or until the cookies are golden.

16.Cookies are done. They may be soft when hot but will harden after cooling down so do not over bake.

17.See the base it golden this is perfect.

18.Add ½ cup icing sugar to a bowl. When the cookies are still warm add a cookie in it.

19.Roll over until the icing sugar coats well, tap to remove excess. I used a fork to do this which was easy.

20.Repeat to finish for all the cookies. Arrange them on a wire rack.

21.Now again double coat it. Add each cookie to the bowl.

22.Roll over to coat well.

23.Arrange them on a wire rack cool down completely then store in a clean airtight jar.

24.Snowball cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Enjoy rich, buttery delicious cookies!

Expert Tips

• Texture - The cookies are rich, buttery and has a melt in the mouth texture.The cookies bake very pale - only bottoms should be slightly golden. If tops become brown, they're over baked and may crack or turn dry.
• Nuts - The nuts give a very nice addition so don't skip it. Toasting the nuts adds flavor and crunch so do not miss this step. You can add 1 cup pecans too. Crush it coarsely or fine chop the nuts. It is easy to chop when it is crisp.
• Keeping in fridge - I usually keep the baking tray with cookie balls in fridge for 10 minutes before baking to avoid spreading of cookies.
• Icing Sugar - Sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
• Butter - Use butter at room temperature for best results. I used unsalted butter so added salt. If you are using salted butter then you can skip salt.
• Coating - Coat the cookies twice for the icing sugar to coat well. First coat while cookies are warm, sugar melts slightly and sticks well. Second coat it after fully cooled to give the beautiful snowy look.

Serving & Storage Suggestion

Snowball cookies keeps well in room temperature for 3 days if stored in a airtight container. However you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. When you need to bake, thaw the dough then proceed with the process.

FAQS

1.What is Snowball cookies? Why is it named so?

Snowball cookies are rich, buttery cookies made using flour, butter, sugar, vanilla essence and nuts. They are baked round balls coated in icing sugar which resembles snow balls hence the name snowball cookies.

2.Can I replace icing sugar with powdered sugar?

Yes you can replace icing sugar with powdered sugar but make sure it is fine.

3.How to store snowball cookies?

Snowball cookies keeps well for up to 3 days at room temperature in a airtight jar and up to 2 weeks if refrigerated.

4.Do Snowball Cookies contain eggs?

No. Traditional snowball cookies are naturally eggless, which gives them their crumbly, tender texture.

5.Can I make them without nuts?

Yes! Simply skip the nuts. Add 1-2 tablespoons extra flour if the dough feels too soft.

If you have any more questions about this snowball cookies recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this snowball cookies recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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The wonder soup recipe also called cabbage wonder soup, diet soup, or detox cabbage soup or Original Cabbage soup diet recipe is very popular. This low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable soup is consumed in the 7 day cabbage soup diet.

As a nutrition focused recipe creator, I look at it with two minds:

• On one hand, it’s a very light, vegetable packed soup that’s easy to cook and quite budget-friendly.
• On the other, the original cabbage soup diet is a short term, very low calorie fad diet that isn’t designed for long term, sustainable weight loss.

So in this post, I’m sharing the original wonder soup recipe from 7 day cabbage soup diet plan. It’s a classic, low-calorie cabbage soup diet soup.

Here’s Why I Like This Cabbage Soup

• It move the scale (quickly): When you follow the original cabbage soup diet properly for a short, set period, the scale usually drops fast. A lot of it is water weight, of course, but works great before an event or special occasion can feel really motivating.
• It’s simple and structured: I do not need to count calories and no complicated recipes and I can eat this soup in as much quantity as I want. Just a big pot of cabbage soup and a clear 7 days plan.
• It feels like a short, sharp reset: After a period of overeating or rich food, a few days on this very light, veggie-heavy soup makes me feel a bit de-puffed and less bloated. So I don’t take it as a lifestyle and it’s not meant to be but as a quick reset before getting back to normal eating, this works great.
• It’s good as a jumpstart, not a forever diet: I don’t see the cabbage soup diet as a long-term solution. I see it as a jumpstart: a strict, one-week push that leads me into a more balanced, sustainable way of eating.

What Is Wonder Soup?

Wonder soup is essentially a very simple cabbage vegetable soup:

• Based on cabbage, onion, celery, carrots, bell pepper and tomatoes
• Cooked in water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• Lightly seasoned with herbs, salt, pepper and sometimes a pinch of chilli

It became famous because of the cabbage soup diet a 7 day eating plan. In cabbage soup diet plan this soup is eaten in generous amounts alongside a small list of other foods each day.

Online you’ll see it under many names:

• wonder soup
• miracle soup
• cabbage soup diet soup
• fat-burning cabbage soup
• detox cabbage soup
• sacred heart soup / GM diet soup 

In this recipe, I’m sharing the original cabbage soup diet recipe: lots of vegetables, water based broth, very little oil in the soup itself so it stays true to its “diet soup” origins.

Ingredients for Original Wonder Soup

For making wonder soup recipe You’ll need:

• Cabbage: green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• Onion: yellow or white onion, chopped
• Celery: chopped; classic in almost every version
• Carrots: sliced or diced
• Green bell pepper: adds sweetness and colour
• Garlic powder: optional but recommended for flavour
• Tomatoes: canned diced tomatoes or fresh chopped tomatoes
• Tomato Paste: Adds a subtle thickness
• Water or low sodium vegetable broth: the base; water is most “original” and lowest in calories
• Olive oil: just 1–2 teaspoons to soften the onion (you can omit if you prefer absolutely no added fat)
• Dried herbs: such as Italian seasoning, thyme or parsley
• Bay leaf: optional, adds depth to the broth
• Salt and black pepper: to taste
• Optional heat: a pinch of red chilli flakes or cayenne
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: for garnish

This keeps it very low in calories, high in volume and fibre, and as close as possible to the original cabbage soup diet soup.

How to Make Wonder Soup (Stovetop)

You can adapt this for pressure cooker/Instant Pot, but the classic method is just a big pot on the stove.

• Sauté the aromatics (very lightly)
  • In a large pot, add 1–2 teaspoons of olive oil (or a splash of water if you prefer oil-free).
  • Add chopped onion and celery and carrots. Cook on medium heat for 3–4 minutes until they start to soften.
  • Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Add the main vegetables
  • Stir in the, bell pepper and chopped tomatoes.
  • Toss everything together so the vegetables are lightly coated and start to soften at the edges.
  • Add Chopped cabbage
  • Cover and cook for 2 minutes

• Add liquids and seasoning
  • Pour in water or low sodium vegetable broth. You want enough to just cover the vegetables generously the soup should be brothy.
  • Add diced tomatoes (with their juices).
  • Add bay leaf, dried herbs, a small pinch of chilli flakes (if using), salt and pepper.
• Simmer until tender
  • Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  • Cover partially and simmer for about 20–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt, pepper or herbs if needed.
• Serve
  • Remove the bay leaf.
  • Ladle the wonder soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
  • Serve hot as a very light meal or starter.

This is the classic, low calorie version: lots of vegetables, almost no fat, no added protein, and a very clear broth.

How Low Calorie Is Wonder Soup?

Exact calories will depend on the quantities you use, but most original cabbage soup diet recipes come out roughly in this range:

• About 60 – 90 calories per serving (1½–2 cups)
• Very low in fat
• Mostly from cabbage, carrots, onion, and tomatoes

That’s why wonder soup is used in very low-calorie diets it’s high in volume and fibre but low in energy.

Wonder Soup, Cabbage Soup Diet & Detox

I simply love this cabbage soup recipe. While many people don’t support this quick fix weightloss soup and call it a fad diet, I love it! Here are a few reasons why I like this and use cabbage soup diet safely without compromising health. Many people say that weight comes back when you stop diet.

1. This diet works for me and I have noticed the weight stays off as long as I eat balanced portion controlled diet. Only thing I restrict is sugars and carbs because if you do that weight comes back quickly.

The original cabbage soup diet suggests eating this soup several times a day, plus a small number of specific foods, for one week. People often report fast weight loss, but most of that is water weight and some muscle, and most health experts classify it as a fad diet.

Some important realities:

• It’s very low in calories (often under 1,000 calories per day during the diet).
• It’s not nutritionally balanced and low in protein, fats and some vitamins/minerals.
• It’s meant as a short-term pattern, not a lifestyle.
• Weight lost this way is usually regained when you return to normal eating.

Healthline, Medical News Today and other nutrition sources describe the cabbage soup diet as a short-term, unsustainable approach and do not recommend it as a long-term weight-loss solution.

My take, as someone who loves both food and evidence:

• It’s okay to enjoy this wonder soup recipe as a very light meal or part of a short reset period.
• It’s not a good idea to rely on it alone for long periods or repeat strict 7-day cycles again and again.
• For sustainable weight loss, a balanced eating pattern plus movement and good sleep will always win over crash diets.

If you want a more balanced, everyday cabbage soup that fits into long-term healthy eating, I also have a healthy cabbage soup recipe with more flexible seasoning and a more cozy, “normal soup” feel.

Healthy cabbage soup recipe (vegetarian & easy)

And if you’re curious about the full cabbage soup diet – the 7-day schedule, pros and cons and who should avoid it – I’ve broken that down in a separate, detailed article.

cabbage soup diet 7-day plan, pros & cons and safer alternatives

Wonder Soup vs Healthy Cabbage Soup: What’s the Difference?

Since we now have both on the blog, here’s how I’d describe them quickly:

• Wonder Soup :
  • Very low calorie
  • Minimal oil, no protein add-ins
  • As close as possible to the original cabbage soup diet soup
  • Often used as “detox cabbage soup” or short reset soup
• Healthy Cabbage Soup :
  • Still light and veggie packed, but more flexible and flavour layered
  • Easier to pair with normal meals and use as an everyday soup
  • Better suited to long-term healthy eating and weight-loss-friendly routines

Storing & Reheating Wonder Soup

Because this soup is almost all vegetables and broth, it stores very well:

• Fridge: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2–3 months.
  Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat gently with a splash of water.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave until hot. Taste and adjust salt if needed – flavours can mellow slightly after chilling.

FAQs About Wonder Soup & Detox Cabbage Soup

This is a very low-calorie, short-term diet. It’s not suitable for everyone and it’s always a good idea to speak to your doctor before trying it, especially if you have any health conditions.

More Such Recipes

• Weight Watchers Zero Point Soup
• Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe
• Lemon Coriander Detox Soup
• 7 Day Cabbage Soup Diet Plan
• Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe
• Homemade Tomato Soup
• Spinach Soup

If You like this recipe and made it Please rate the recipe. It helps us to reach more people. For the Latest updates Subscribe to Rekha’s Whatsapp. You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest for more food inspirations.

7 Day cabbage soup diet plan is one of those quick-fix weight loss plans that never completely disappears. Before you commit to seven days of wonder soup, it’s worth understanding what this diet really does to your body.

If you’ve ever googled quick weight loss or scrolled through New Year diet trends, you’ve probably seen the cabbage soup diet pop up. It promises fast results from a simple wonder soup also known as original cabbage soup that you can eat as much as you like for 7 days.

As a nutrition focused recipe developer who also loves a good big bowl of veggie soup, I totally understand the appeal. A cheap, delicious and easy soup you can batch cook, that might also help with weight loss? Of course it goes viral every few years. But the reality is more complicated.

In this post, I’ll walk you through:

• What the cabbage soup diet actually is?
• The typical 7 day cabbage soup diet plan (day by day)
• What results can you get from 7 day cabbage diet results vs what really happens
• Pros and cons, side effects, and who should avoid cabbage soup diet
• And, a healthier way to enjoy cabbage soup for weight loss without crash dieting

Quick note: This post is for general information. It’s not medical advice. Always check with your doctor or dietitian before starting any restrictive diet, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.

What Is the Cabbage Soup Diet?

The cabbage soup diet is a short-term, very low-calorie eating plan that usually lasts 7 days. The star of this 7 day cabbage soup diet plan is a simple vegetable soup made mainly with cabbage, onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes.

You’ll see it online under a lot of different names:

• Cabbage soup diet soup
• Wonder soup or miracle soup
• Fat-burning cabbage soup
• Original Cabbage Soup Recipe
• Detox cabbage soup
• Sometimes even linked with military diet or old hospital diet stories

The promise is dramatic: eat unlimited amounts of this low calorie cabbage soup plus a few allowed foods each day, and you can lose several pounds in a week.

What makes it different from just eating a healthy cabbage soup?

• It’s not just a recipe it’s a strict 7 day schedule
• The overall calories are usually extremely low
• Food choices are very limited and repetitive
• It’s meant as a quick fix, not a long term way of eating

The Classic 7 Day Cabbage Soup Diet Plan (Day by Day)

There are many versions, but most 7 day cabbage soup diet plans look something like this:

• Day 1 : Fruit Day
  Unlimited cabbage soup + any fruit you like, except bananas.
• Day 2: Vegetables Day
  Cabbage soup + non-starchy vegetables (often a baked potato with a little butter is allowed at dinner).
• Day 3: Fruits + Veggies
  Cabbage soup + a mix of fruits and vegetables (still no bananas or potatoes).
• Day 4: Bananas and Milk Day
  Cabbage soup + bananas + skim milk or unsweetened yogurt.
• Day 5: Protein + Tomatoes
  Cabbage soup + lean protein (usually beef or chicken) + tomatoes. Vegetarians can include Tofu
• Day 6: Protein + Veggies
  Cabbage soup + more lean protein + non-starchy vegetables.
• Day 7: Brown Rice Day
  Cabbage soup + brown rice + vegetables + sometimes unsweetened fruit juice.

Different websites and TikTok videos tweak the details, but the structure is similar:
a lot of soup, a little fruit, veg and some protein on certain days, and overall very few calories.

If you’re looking for the original low-calorie cabbage soup diet soup (wonder soup), I’ve shared the full recipe here.

How Does the Cabbage Soup Diet Work ?

Short answer: most of the weight you lose is from water and glycogen, not all body fat.

Here’s what’s usually happening behind the scenes:

• The diet is very low in calories, often well under what most adults need just to maintain weight. Healthline
• You’re eating mostly high fibre, high water vegetables, which fill your stomach for very few calories.
• When you suddenly drop calories like this, your body uses up stored glycogen (carbohydrate stored in muscles and liver) and the water attached to it so the scale moves quickly at first. Medical News Today

That’s why people often report:

• “I lost 5–10 pounds in a week!”
• But then regain a lot of it once they return to normal eating.

There’s no special fat burning magic in cabbage itself. Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable, but the fat-burning reputation comes from the extreme calorie deficit, not from a special ingredient in the soup.

Cabbage Soup Diet Results: What Can You Really Expect?

If you follow a 7 day cabbage soup diet strictly, you’ll very likely see the scale go down simply because you’re eating so much less.

But it’s important to understand what those results mean:

• A large part of the loss is water weight and stored glycogen, especially in the first few days.
• You may also lose some lean muscle, especially if the diet is low in protein.
• Once you go back to your usual pattern of eating, a lot of that weight tends to come back.

Some people use the cabbage soup diet as a short reset before moving into a more balanced plan. Others end up in a frustrating cycle of:

Strict 7 days → weight drops → normal eating → weight jumps back → try another extreme diet.

Long term, that all or nothing pattern can make weight management feel harder, not easier.

Pros of the Cabbage Soup Diet (Yes, There Are a Few)

Let’s be fair and talk about what actually works here, even if I don’t love the overall diet:

• You eat more vegetables.
  The soup is loaded with cabbage, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes all nutrient-dense, low calorie foods.
• You get a short term calorie reset.
  For some people, a structured 7-day plan can feel easier than eat a bit less overall , especially after a holiday or period of overeating.
• It’s simple to follow.
  No calorie tracking apps, no macro calculations just a pot of soup and a basic daily food list. 

If you struggle with snacking on ultra processed foods, a week of big, simple, home cooked soup can feel mentally refreshing.

Cons and Risks: Why Most Experts Call It a Fad Diet

Now, the bigger picture. Most health professionals and nutrition writers consider the cabbage soup diet a fad and not something to repeat often or follow long-term.

Here’s why.

1. Very low in calories

For many people, the total daily intake on this diet ends up well under 1,200 calories, sometimes closer to 800–1,000. That’s lower than what most adults need for basic metabolic functions, let alone exercise or an active lifestyle.

2. Not nutritionally balanced

On several days of the classic 7 days cabbage soup diet plan:

• Protein is very low
• Healthy fats are almost non existent
• The overall diet is skewed towards soup, fruit and some veg, with very little variety

Followed beyond a short timeframe, that can lead to nutrient gaps, fatigue, weakness and cravings.

3. Mostly short-term, water-based weight loss

Crash diets like this tend to:

• Drop weight quickly in the first week (mostly water)
• Slow down your metabolic rate if repeated often
• Make it easier to regain weight once normal eating resumes 

4. Possible side effects

People often report:

• Headaches, dizziness, low energy
• Digestive issues like gas, bloating or cramps (cabbage is high in fibre and can trigger symptoms for some) 
• Moodiness and strong cravings
• Difficulty concentrating

Who Should Avoid the Cabbage Soup Diet?

Always talk to your healthcare provider, but in general, the cabbage soup diet is not appropriate for:

• People with a history of disordered eating or yo-yo dieting
• Those with diabetes or blood sugar regulation issues
• Anyone with digestive conditions worsened by high-fibre, cruciferous vegetables
• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
• People on certain medications that interact with very low-calorie or very low-carb diets

If you recognise yourself in any of those categories, treat cabbage soup as a food  not a structured 7 day crash diet for weightloss .

A Healthier Way to Use Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to throw away the idea of cabbage soup altogether.

A hearty, vegetable rich soup can be a fantastic tool in a balanced weight loss approach, if you use it differently:

• As a starter before a meal: research on low calorie soups shows they can help reduce how much you eat at the main course. 
• As a light lunch or dinner, pair the cabbage soup with enough protein (beans, lentils, tofu, paneer, eggs, or meat if you eat it).
• As part of a routine that also includes movement, strength training, sleep and realistic calorie intake not as the only thing you eat all day.

If you like the idea of a cabbage based “weight loss soup” but want it to be more balanced, you might enjoy this Weight Loss Cabbage Soup recipe also known as Original wonder soup recipe.

 weight loss cabbage soup recipe

In the above recipe, you can:

• Add beans, chickpeas, lentils or tofu to boost protein
• Adjust the spice and herbs to your taste
• Batch cook and freeze portions so you always have a healthy option ready

Example: 1-Day Balanced Menu Using Cabbage Soup

Instead of a full 7 day cabbage soup diet, here’s what a more balanced day might look like, where cabbage soup plays a supporting role:

• Breakfast
  Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt + berries + a sprinkle of oats or granola
• Lunch
  1–2 bowls of cabbage soup + whole grain toast + hummus or cottage cheese
• Snack
  Fruit + a handful of nuts or seeds
• Dinner
  A protein rich main (tofu stir-fry, lentil curry, baked fish or chicken) + vegetables + a small portion of rice, quinoa or potatoes

You still get the light, full feeling from soup, but your body also gets enough protein, carbs and healthy fats to function well and preserve muscle.

Cabbage Soup Diet FAQs

Bottom Line: Is the Cabbage Soup Diet Worth It?

The cabbage soup diet keeps coming back because it offers exactly what many of us secretly want: fast results with simple rules.

But underneath the wonder soup and lose 10 pounds in 7 days headlines, it’s still a very low-calorie, short term fad diet:

• It can lead to quick, mostly temporary weight loss
• It’s not nutritionally balanced or sustainable
• It doesn’t teach you how to eat for long-term health and weight management

My suggestion as a recipe developer and nutritionist:

• Enjoy cabbage soup as a healthy, budget friendly, veggie packed meal,
• Use it as one tool among many in a balanced, realistic weight-loss plan,
• And skip the strict, repeat 7-day cabbage soup diet cycles.

If you’d like a cabbage soup you can actually keep in your routine, my Weight Loss Cabbage Soup is designed exactly for that flavourful, veggie heavy, and much more friendly to real life.

More Vegetable Soup Recipes

• Weight Watchers Zero Point Soup
• Easy Vegetable Soup Recipe
• Lemon Coriander Detox Soup
• Tuscan White Beans Pasta Soup {Instant Pot}
• Homemade Tomato Soup
• Spinach Soup

If You like this recipe and made it Please rate the recipe. It helps us to reach more people. For the Latest updates Subscribe to Rekha’s Whatsapp. You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Pinterest for more food inspirations.

 If you’ve ever wished you could make restaurant-style Garlic Naan at home without any stress, you’re going to love this recipe!

Making restaurant-style garlic naan at home is easier than you’d think. All you need is a few pantry staple ingredients and 30 minutes to recreate the best, homemade garlic naan. Since this is a no-yeast recipe, the dough needs almost no resting time, which means you can whip up a batch whenever the craving for it hits. 

This recipe keeps things really easy, even if you’re new to making naan. And once you get the hang of it, you can switch things up to add a little chilli to turn it into a chilli-garlic naan, or try our no-yeast naan variation when you want something even quicker.  can get the same restaurant-style charred bits and a smokey flavour on the stovetop.  

Ingredients for Garlic Naan

• Dry Ingredients: Maida, salt, sugar (helps tenderize, brown and balance flavors), and baking powder (for that signature naan fluffiness)make up the base of this naan.
• Wet Ingredients: Milk and water help bring the dough together, and a little oil keeps it smooth and easy to roll.
• Garlic Topping: Finely chopped garlic and coriander for that classic flavour.
• Finishing: Melted butter brushed on top once the naan is cooked to give it that glossy, restaurant-style finish.

Richa’s Top Tips

• Make sure the pan is hot enough, but not smoking before placing the rolled dough, or it won’t stick properly. 
• Once you make dough balls, leave them to rest on a greased plate or baking tray to prevent them from sticking to the plate or each other. Rest the dough properly: Those 30 minutes of resting time make a huge difference. The dough relaxes, becomes easier to roll, and cooks softer.
• Roll it evenly (and not too thick): A thin, even naan puffs better on the tawa and cooks without turning chewy.
• Use water to help it stick: Brushing the non-garlic side with water before placing it on the tawa ensures the naan sticks well and won’t fall off when you flip the pan.
• Cook on medium heat: Too high and the naan burns before it cooks through, too low and it dries out. Medium heat gives the perfect puff and colour.
• Press the garlic in gently: Lightly pressing the garlic onto the dough helps it stay put while cooking instead of falling off on the tawa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Keep leftover naan wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for 2 days. Warm it on a tawa with a little butter to bring back the softness.
• Freezer: Garlic naan freezes really well. Cool completely, stack with butter paper between each piece, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to a month.
• Reheating: Heat on a tawa for 1–2 minutes until soft. Avoid the microwave for too long because it can make the naan chewy.

Serving Ideas

Garlic Naan goes with almost any creamy curry or sabzi, but here are some tried-and-loved pairings that turn it into a full, comforting meal:

• With Restaurant-Style Paneer Butter Masala: The soft naan soaks up that creamy, rich gravy beautifully.
• With Amritsari Dal: A cozy, earthy combo that tastes like proper North Indian comfort food.
• With Slow Cooker Chicken Curry: Perfect for days when you want something hearty but hands-off.
• With South Indian Style Egg Curry: If you want something spicy, comforting, and quick.
• With Easy One Pot Mutton (Lamb) Kofta Curry: For a fuller, more indulgent meal.
• With Chana Masala: A classic vegetarian pairing that never disappoints.
• With Dal Tadka: Simple, wholesome, and perfect when you want something light but satisfying.

Customisation Ideas

• Extra-Garlic Lover’s Naan: Mix grated garlic directly into the dough and brush the naan with garlic butter at the end for a double-hit of flavour.
• Cheesy Garlic Naan: Right after flipping the naan and letting it puff, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on the cooked side. It melts instantly and tastes like restaurant-style cheese naan.
• Chilli-Garlic Twist: Mix finely chopped green chillies into the garlic topping before pressing it onto the dough. Adds heat without changing the recipe structure.
• Herb Explosion: Swap coriander for fresh chives or parsley if you want a milder, fresher flavour profile.

Did You Know?

The word “naan” comes from the Persian word nān, which simply means “bread.” The earliest mentions of naan date back to 1300 AD in the writings of Indo-Persian poet Amir Khusrau. It was originally baked in royal Mughal kitchens—making naan the original food of emperors.

Now it’s over to you! Make a fresh, cozy, homemade garlic naan without special equipment using simple ingredients for that amazing restaurant-style flavour. Serve it hot, share it around, and watch how quickly it becomes a favourite. 

Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @my_foodstory when you make it. I’d love to see your fluffy naans!

Watch Garlic Naan Recipe Video

This article was researched and written by Harita Odedra.

The post Easy Butter Garlic Naan appeared first on My Food Story.

Shahi Tukda is a popular Mughlai Dessert which is loved by everyone all over India and other parts of the world. This is truly a royal dessert that melts in your mouth very similar to double ka meetha. This rich indulgent sweet combines fried bread, sugar syrup, Rabri and chopped nuts.  Shahi Tukda Recipe Shahi...

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The post Shahi Tukda Recipe appeared first on Yummy Tummy.

Chettinad Milagai Chutney is a spicy side dish made using dry chillies, garlic, small onion, tamarind and few basic spices. This milagai chutney recipe is Chettinad style perfect to relish with paniyaram, idli, dosa, uttapam etc. Chettinad Dry Chilli Chutney is simple and quick to make in minutes.

This chutney follows Chettinad style, so the flavor is bit stronger than the usual milagai chutney we make often. It lifts even a plain idli and makes it feel special. It tastes too good with paniyaram also because the spicy-sour taste balances well with the soft batter. 

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About Vara Milagai Chutney

Vara Milagai Chutney is a classic and popular red chilli chutney known for its bright color and simple rustic taste. This chutney is traditionally served wihVella Paniyaram in Chettinad homes. The dry chili, onion garlic paste is kept little coarse, so the texture feels more natural. The bright red color comes mostly from the mix of chillies. It cooks fast also, so it really helps on busy mornings.

It tastes bold, has good flavor, and goes well with almost any South Indian tiffin we make often. As it cooks, the raw smell slowly fades and the chutney becomes a deep red mix. Some versions add garlic or skip tomato, but the taste stays close to the traditional one only.

There are version using tomatoes in this chutney but the traditionally tomatoes are not used. But it is your preference if you want to reduce the heat then you can add tomatoes while grinding and make this chutney too.

You can adjust this chutney based on what you like. For a brighter color, add few more Kashmiri chillies. For sharper taste, increase regular chillies little. A pinch of jaggery also balances heat if you prefer mild. Small changes bring slightly new taste but the main chilli flavor stays the hero.

I usually make this chutney whenever we plan dosa or idli for brunch. It needs very little chopping and comes together so quick If you like chutneys with small punch but still homely, this one fits daily meals nicely. 

Vara Milagai Chutney is one of those quick chutneys I make when I don't want to spend too much time in kitchen but still need something tasty for dosa or idli. We love it with soft hot idlis.

Chettinad Milagai Chutney Video

Vara Milagai Chutney Ingredients

• Red chillies - I have used these for heat since they give that sharp spicy taste. You can reduce it if you want milder chutney.
• Kashmiri red chillies - I added this mainly for color because it gives a nice deep red look. You can use only regular chillies also, but then the color comes a bit darker.
• Small onion - I have used this for the base flavor, it gives a mild sweetness and blends well with the chillies. You can add regular onion if you don't have small ones.
• Garlic - This adds great taste and flavor.
• Tamarind - I added a small piece for slight tanginess which balance the spice nicely. You can add little more if you like extra sour taste.
• Gingelly oil - I used this for tempering since it gives a lovely aroma and that usual traditional taste. If you don't have it, you can add little coconut oil also.
• Mustard seeds - This is added for tempering and gives a light nuttiness when it splutters. You can skip if you don't like mustard flavor.
• Curry leaves - This gives a fresh smell and blends so well with gingelly oil. You can add more leaves if you like stronger flavor.

Similar Recipes

• Milagai Chutney
• Tomato Chutney
• Dal Chutney
• Mint Chutney
• Peanut Chutney

How to make Chettinad Milagai Chutney Step by Step

1.To a mixer jar add 10 kashmiri red chilies along with 5 regular red chilies.

2.Add 15 small onion.

3.Add 10 garlic cloves.

4.Add rock salt to taste.

5.Add 1 teaspoon tamarind.

6.Add little water and grind it slightly coarse.

7.Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil - add 1 teaspoon mustard seeds let it splutter then add few curry leaves, let it splutter.

8.Add the prepared chili paste.

9.Saute well.

10.Cook for 5-7 minutes or until raw smell leaves.

11.Finally add 1 tablespoon sesame oil.

12.Mix it well and switch off.

Chettinad style raw milagai chutney is ready.

Expert Tips

• Grind texture - I grind the mixture slightly coarse as it gives better taste and rustic feel. Smooth grinding changes the flavor.
• Oil quantity - I usually add little extra gingelly oil because this chutney tastes better when oil shows up. Try not to reduce it too much.
• Cooking time - I cook till the raw smell goes fully, otherwise the chutney tastes harsh. Let it simmer slowly.
• Chilli mix - Try mixing both regular and Kashmiri chillies as it gives the right color and heat. Only regular chillies make it too spicy.
• Storage - Keep the chutney a little thick if you want to store it, thinner consistency doesn't stay fresh for long.
• Balance - Add 1 teaspoon sugar for a tangy taste and balance.

Serving and Storage

Serve this chutney hot with idli, dosa, uthappam or even kuzhi paniyaram. It also goes nice with curd dosa or even chapathi if you enjoy a spicy side. Store the chutney in a tight jar and keep it in fridge. It stays good for around two days. You can warm it a bit before serving, just don't heat too much otherwise the color turns little dark.

FAQS

1.Can I add tomato?

Yes, you can add 1 tomato while grinding but chutney becomes less spcy. Traditionally tomatoes are not used for this chutney.

2.Can I make with Kashmiri chillies alone?

Yes you can, but then the chutney won't be much spicy, so adjust it how you like.

3.Can I add big onion?

Yes, you can add big onion but small onion adds more taste.

4.Can I make this chutney in advance?

Yes, it keeps well in fridge for two days. Just reheat a little before using.

5.Why sesame oil?

It gives the best flavor for this chutney, and it matches the chili taste so well.

If you have any more questions about this Milagai Chutney Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest ,Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Milagai Chutney Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

📖 Recipe Card

The post Chettinad Milagai Chutney Recipe appeared first on Sharmis Passions.

Learn how to make Karnataka-style Vegetable Palav, also known as Rice Bath with a video tutorial and detailed step by step photos. Vegetable Palav is a flavorful one-pot meal that's aromatic, comforting and loaded with fresh vegetables. Vegetable Palav (yes, it is not pulao or pulav!) is a much loved one pot meal recipe very...

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The post Vegetable Palav | Rice Bath Recipe | Karnataka Style Veg Palav appeared first on Cooking From Heart.

Starbucks medicine ball recipe is my cozy copycat Starbucks recipe for the viral honey citrus mint tea everyone orders when cold and flu season hits. It’s a soothing mix of mint and peach tea, hot lemonade, and honey that you can easily customize for sweetness, caffeine and comfort at home.

If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram this cold and flu season, you’ve probably seen people clutching a warm cup of Starbucks Medicine Ball and swearing by it. This cozy honey citrus mint tea started as a secret menu hack and became so popular that Starbucks officially added it to the menu as Honey Citrus Mint Tea.

As a nutritionist and recipe developer, I had to recreate this viral drink at home – with a version that still tastes like your favorite Starbucks Medicine Ball tea, but lets you control the sugar, caffeine and ingredients.

In this post, I’ll walk you through:

• What exactly Starbucks Medicine Ball / Honey Citrus Mint Tea is
• What’s really in it and how much sugar & caffeine it has
• Whether it actually helps when you’re feeling under the weather
• My easy Starbucks Medicine Ball tea recipe
• Lower-sugar, caffeine-free and vegan variations
• Iced Medicine Ball and make-ahead options
• How to order a Medicine Ball at Starbucks or on the app

What Is Starbucks Medicine Ball | Honey Citrus Mint Tea

Starbucks Medicine Ball is a hot tea drink made with:

• A minty green tea
• A peach herbal tea
• Hot water + steamed lemonade
• A spoonful of honey

The result is a warm, lemony, minty drink that tastes like a hug in a mug. Sweet, citrusy, with a hint of peach and that refreshing mint finish.

Originally it was a “secret menu” drink that customers nicknamed:

• Medicine Ball
• Cold Buster
• Cold Buster Tea

It became so popular that Starbucks brought it onto the official menu under the name:

Honey Citrus Mint Tea

So if you walk into Starbucks and don’t see Medicine Ball on the board, look for Honey Citrus Mint Tea it’s the same drink, just with a more official name.

Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Medicine Ball Copycat

Let me quickly sell you on why this homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball tea recipe deserves a place in your winter and allergy season routine:

• Ready in 5 minutes with simple pantry ingredients
• Much cheaper than ordering it at Starbucks every time
• You can control the sweetness and sugar to match your goals
• Easy to make caffeine-free, kid-friendly and vegan
• Works as a comforting warm drink in winter and a refreshing iced honey citrus mint tea in summer
• Perfect when you’re feeling a bit run down, sniffly, or just want a non-coffee cozy drink

This is one of those recipes I like to have on standby for “blah” days when you’re not sick enough to live on soup, but you want something that feels caring and soothing. The honey citrus tea is not a medicine, but each ingredient plays a small role in why people reach for it and feel comforting while sipping the medicine ball.

Water + Tea

Hot water plus herbal or green tea gives you:

• Hydration
• Gentle warmth and steam that feels good when you’re stuffy
• Tea antioxidants, depending on the blend you use

Lemon or Lemonade

Lemon or lemonade adds:

• Bright, citrusy flavor
• That fresh and clean feeling when you’re congested
• A little vitamin C from the lemon juice

In the original Starbucks Medicine Ball, the citrus comes from a combination of lemonade and citrusy tea.

Mint / Minty Green Tea

Mint and minty green teas are:

• Naturally cooling and refreshing
• Great for that clear feeling in your nose and chest
• A source of light caffeine if you use green tea, much lower than coffee

Peach / Chamomile

The peach herbal tea layer:

• Adds gentle fruit sweetness and aroma
• Balances the lemon and mint
• Often includes calming herbs like chamomile in many blends

Honey

Honey is what makes this drink feel:

• Soothing for a scratchy throat
• Slightly thick and comforting in texture
• Naturally sweet

Important: Honey is not safe for children under 1 year. For little ones, always follow your pediatrician’s advice.

What’s in a Starbucks Medicine Ball vs My At-Home Version

The Starbucks version Honey Citrus Mint Tea is made with:

• Half hot water, half steamed lemonade
• 1 Jade Citrus Mint tea bag (a citrusy green tea with spearmint)
• 1 Peach Tranquility tea bag (peach, chamomile, citrus)
• A pump or two of honey blend

For this homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball copycat, we’ll keep the same flavor profile but use ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores:

• Water
• Lemonade (regular, light, or homemade)
• A minty green tea or herbal mint tea
• A peach herbal tea (or another fruity herbal tea if that’s what you have)
• Real honey (or maple/agave for a vegan version)

You’ll get that same cozy honey citrus mint tea flavor, but with more control over the sweetness, caffeine, and overall ingredients.

Starbucks Medicine Ball Nutrition

Let’s talk numbers in simple, practical terms.

A Grande (16 fl oz) Honey Citrus Mint Tea at Starbucks typically comes in around:

• Roughly 130 calories
• Around 30+ grams of carbs, mostly from sugar
• Low caffeine – thanks to the green tea, it’s much less than a regular coffee, but not caffeine-free

Most of the sugar comes from:

• Lemonade
• Honey / honey blend

That’s totally fine as an occasional treat. But if you’re sipping it regularly or trying to reduce sugar, the homemade version makes much more sense.

With my Starbucks Medicine Ball tea recipe, you can:

• Dilute the lemonade with extra water
• Use light or low sugar lemonade
• Or use fresh lemon juice + water + honey instead of ready-made lemonade
• Start with less honey and sweeten only as much as you really need

I’ve also included a lighter variation below if you want to cut sugar even more.

Does Starbucks Medicine Ball Really Help When You’re Sick?

Short answer: it can help you feel better, but it doesn’t cure anything.

Here’s how I like to think of it as a nutritionist:

• The warm drink can ease a sore, dry throat and feel soothing when you’re chilled.
• The steam can help you feel less congested temporarily.
• Honey can coat the throat and may help calm mild cough and irritation.
• Lemon and mint make everything taste fresher and “cleaner” when you’re stuffy.
• Staying hydrated always supports your body while it recovers.

So, Medicine Ball firmly is more of a comfort rituals that support you , not a magic cure.

Reminder: This post is purely for information and recipe inspiration. It’s not medical advice. If you’re unwell, have underlying health conditions, or are on medication, always check with your healthcare provider.

Tools You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here part of the appeal of this Starbucks Medicine Ball copycat is you don’t need many equipment.

• Small saucepan or electric kettle
• Heatproof mug (I like using a clear glass mug)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon for stirring
• Optional: milk frother if you want to froth the top slightly for a café-style touch

How to Make Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea at Home

Here’s the step by step method, followed by a recipe card style version you can paste into WP Recipe Maker.

Starbucks Medicine Ball Ingredients

• ¾ cup (180 ml) water
• ¾ cup (180 ml) lemonade (regular or low-sugar)
• 1 minty green tea bag
• 1 peach herbal tea bag
• 1 teaspoons honey, or to taste
• Optional garnish: lemon slice, fresh mint

How To Make Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe

• Heat the water and lemonade
  • Add water and lemonade to a small saucepan.
  • Heat until steaming hot but not at a rolling boil (you want it very hot, not aggressively boiling so the lemonade doesn’t taste bitter).
• Add tea bags to your mug
  • Place the minty green tea bag and the peach herbal tea bag in your mug.
  • Pour the hot water–lemonade mixture over the tea bags.
• Steep
  • Let the tea steep for 3–5 minutes.
  • For a milder, softer flavor, stop at around 3 minutes. For a stronger, more intense Medicine Ball, go closer to 5 minutes.
• Sweeten with honey
  • Remove the tea bags and discard.
  • Stir in 1–2 teaspoons honey, starting with 1 teaspoon and tasting before you add more.
• Garnish and serve
  • Add a slice of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint if you like.
  • Sip warm and enjoy.

Lighter & Special Diet Versions

Lighter Medicine Ball (Lower Sugar)

• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• ½ cup (120 ml) lemonade (or even less if you want)
• 1 minty green tea bag
• 1 peach herbal tea bag
• ½–1 teaspoon honey (sweeten to taste)

This simple tweak:

• Dilutes the lemonade
• Uses less honey
• Cuts total sugar while keeping the same cozy lemon–mint–peach profile

Caffeine Free Medicine Ball

Perfect for evenings or for those who avoid caffeine:

• Swap the minty green tea bag for an herbal mint tea bag (peppermint or spearmint herbal tea). Keep the peach herbal tea.
• Everything else stays the same. You’ll get all the honey citrus mint vibes, but with zero caffeine.

Vegan Medicine Ball

To make your Starbucks Medicine Ball tea vegan:

• Swap honey for maple syrup or agave syrup.
• Start with 1 teaspoon and sweeten as needed.

Maple adds a deeper, slightly caramel note; agave is more neutral.

Medicine Ball Tea Variations and Substitutions

If You Can’t Find the Starbucks Teas

If you don’t have access to Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility, try:

• Any green tea with mint and/or citrus
• Any peach herbal tea
• A mix of peppermint tea + chamomile tea if you don’t have peach still delicious and soothing. The exact flavor will vary slightly, but the drink will stay true to the honey citrus mint tea idea.

No Lemonade? No Problem.

If you don’t keep lemonade at home or want even more control over sugar:

• Use water + fresh lemon juice instead of lemonade.
• Sweeten with honey, maple, or agave to taste.

A simple ratio that works well:

• 1½ cups (360 ml) hot water
• 1 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Sweeten with 1 teaspoons honey or maple

Then proceed with the same tea steeping method.

Sugar Free Tweaks

If you absolutely need a sugar free option for medical reasons or strict diets:

• Use sugar free lemonade
• Use a sugar free honey style syrup or sweetener

Personally, I prefer using real honey in moderate amounts for flavor and simplicity. But you don’t take sugar you can make sugar free starbucks medicine ball.

Extra Soothing Add-ins

You can boost the comfort factor with:

• 2 thin slices of fresh ginger added to the mug before pouring hot liquid
• Extra mint leaves
• A pinch of grated lemon zest
• A small splash of peppermint extract (go very light because it’s strong!)
• A second herbal tea bag like chamomile for an extra calming evening version

Iced Honey Citrus Mint Tea (Iced Medicine Ball)

Yes, you can absolutely turn this into an iced Starbucks Medicine Ball for warmer days.

How to make iced Medicine Ball

• Prepare the classic recipe with:
  • ¾ cup water
  • ¾ cup lemonade
  • Tea bags and honey as above
• Let the brewed tea cool for 15 minutes at room temperature.
• Fill a tall glass with ice.
• Pour the cooled honey citrus mint tea over the ice.
• Garnish with a lemon slice and fresh mint.

You get the same cozy flavor, but in a crisp, refreshing iced drink.

Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating

You can easily scale this recipe and keep it ready during cold and flu season.

To Make a Big Batch (4 Servings)

• 3 cups (720 ml) water
• 3 cups (720 ml) lemonade
• 4 minty green tea bags
• 4 peach herbal tea bags
• 4–8 teaspoons honey (start with less, taste and adjust)

Method:

1. Heat water and lemonade in a medium saucepan until very hot.
2. Add all tea bags and steep 3–5 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags, stir in honey, and taste.
4. Let cool slightly, then store in a glass jar or bottle in the fridge.

Storage

• Store your brewed Medicine Ball tea in the fridge for up to 3–4 days in a covered container.
• The flavor will mellow slightly over time, which many people enjoy.

Reheating

• Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
• If it thickens a bit, add a splash of water to loosen.

Customising Honey Citrus Mint Tea at Starbucks

Most baristas still know it by the nickname Medicine Ball, but the official name on the menu is Honey Citrus Mint Tea. So if you want to order as customised version.

• Ask for light lemonade or extra hot water to dilute the lemonade.
• Ask for less honey blend or no added sweetener if you prefer.
• For less caffeine, ask if they can make it with more herbal tea and less green tea.

FAQs About Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea

More Such Recipes

• Pink Salt Trick Drink
• Russian Tea Recipe with Tang
• Costa Rican Tea for Weight Loss
• Jamu Juice Recipe
• Turmeric Tea Recipe
• Cinnamon Tea Recipe
• Blue Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
• Kehwa Tea

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Eggless white fruit cake is a soft, delicious and creamy cake. It is one of the easiest fruit cakes that you can make because there are no complicated steps involved. The batter is made with flour, oil, butter, condensed milk and a good amount of soaked fruits. If you are looking for an eggless fruit...

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Spicy bean soup is a warm and comforting soup perfect for chilled days. With just basic ingredients, the kidney bean soup can be made in no time. The kidney beans are simmered with onion, garlic, tomato puree, vegetable stock and results in an amazing flavour. This soup is perfect for those days when you want...

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Candy Cane Cookies are cookies that are a colorful treat especially for Christmas season. Candy Cane Cookies hone our baking skills and makes us move from novice to an expert in baking. These have a soft with a light crisp texture. The twisted red-white shape looks really cute on a plate. These taste mildly sweet and buttery, so it goes well with milk or tea. Kids get really excited seeing the candy cane shape and the bright colors.

This recipe is usually made winter holiday, but you can make it any time for little mood lift. The dough is easy to work with. Twisting the two colors together feels relaxing once you get hang of it. It's a good recipe to practice shaping cookies if you are still learning.

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About Candy Cane Cookies

Candy Cane Cookies are festive cookies made with butter sugar dough. One half of the dough is colored to make stripes. The texture is soft inside with gentle crunch at the edges. The mild vanilla flavor mixes well with butter. The cookies are shaped into canes by rolling two colored ropes and twisting them. This makes pretty swirl.

You can change the color using gel or powdered colors. Some people like adding almond essence or peppermint for different taste. The plain vanilla version is simple and nice for everyday snacks. The red twist makes them look festive without extra work. It goes good with coffee, milk, or hot chocolate

The dough is flexible. You can refrigerate it to make shaping easier. If the ropes feel very soft, chilling helps. You can make mini or longer canes depending how you roll the dough. The same base dough can be used for sugar cookies too. This is a must try recipe and you will enjoy making it again and again.

I usually bake these in small batches. The cookies spread a bit and gets even color when baked slowly. It's a perfect for making on parties and get-togethers. It was fun shaping these cookies, I loved to do it and mittu was awed seeing these cookies.She insisted to take it to school for her snacks.

I asked amma to shoot a video using my mobile just to show how to shape the candy cane cookies, hope its useful do check it out.

Video

Candy Cane Cookies Ingredients

• All purpose flour / maida - I just used this as base, it gives smooth texture to cookies. You can mix little wheat flour also but maida keeps them soft.
• Chilled butter - I use this for richness and it helps dough hold shape. You can use salted butter also but reduce small pinch of salt.
• Powdered sugar - I added this for sweetness as it mixes easily with butter. You can use cane sugar but powdered sugar makes dough smoother.
• Egg - I used this to bind and make cookies soft inside. You can replace with milk but texture change little.
• Vanilla essence - I have used this for flavor and smell. You can add peppermint essence also if want festive touch.
• Baking powder - I have added as it gives softness to the cookies. It helps bake evenly.
• Red food color - I have added liquid red color to get bright the stripe. Gel color also works for stronger shade.

Why This Recipe Works

• It is easy to shape and uses simple pantry ingredients.
• This recipe gives soft cookies that stay light and buttery.
• You can color and shape the dough in many ways based on your liking.
• It is beginner-friendly and helps improve shaping skills.
• The cookies look festive and makes a nice gift.

Similar Recipes

• Eggless Butter Cookies
• Linzer Cookies
• Crinkle Cookies
• Gingerbread cookies
• Eggless Cookies Dough

How to make Candy Cane Cookies Step by Step

1.Measure and add flour to a sieve, then add baking powder and salt.

2.Sieve it well for even mixing.

3.Now in another mixing bowl, add butter and powdered sugar. Cream together butter and sugar.

4.Whisk it well until creamy, I used electric handmixer. Then add an egg.

5.Whisk it for a minute, then add vanilla essence or any essence of your choice

6.Now add flour mixture, combine and gather to form a soft dough.

7.Now your basic cookie dough is ready. Cling wrap it and refrigerate. I took half of this dough for this candy cane cookies and used the other half for sugar cookies.

8.Divide the dough into 2. Take one portion add red food color, I used red rose liquid food color.

9.Mix well so that the color is even in the dough. Cling wrap both the dough separately and refrigerate at least for 20 minutes.

10.Now take the dough out pinch small pebble sized ball from each color. Now first take the plain color dough. Roll it with your fingers like this.

11.Repeat the same for red color too. Place both the ropes side by side, close to each other then twist and turn.

12.Twist and turn like this to get a spiral. Check out the video demonstration to get a clear idea. While you do this, preheat oven at 180 deg C for 10 minutes.

13.Bend one side to form cane shape.Repeat the process until the entire dough is finished. Arrange it in a baking tray with butter paper. Bake in preheated oven at 180 deg C for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to brown.

Cool down completely then store in a clean airtight box.

Expert Tips

• Chilling the dough - I chill the dough before shaping, sometimes I chill in between too so ropes don't break.
• Shaping the ropes - do not not press too hard while rolling, gentle rolling gives smooth ropes and nice twists.
• Baking time - I keep eye on cookies, as soon edges start turning light golden, overbaking makes them hard fast.
• Color mixing - I usually mix color well in one half of dough so red looks even when twisted.
• Cookie size - I make thin ropes because they puff little, thinner ones keep shape neat.

Serving and Storage

Serve them with warm milk, tea or even pack them for gifting. This recipe goes good for dessert tables or small snack boxes. Store the cookies in airtight box once it cooled fully. It stays fresh for around a week at room temperature. If they soften later, you can warm for a minute to refresh.

FAQS

1.Can I skip the egg?

Yes you can, replace with little milk but the cookies might be slightly less soft.

2.Why did my ropes break while twisting?

Mostly the dough was too warm, refrigerate it for few minutes and try again.

3.Can I add gel food color?

Yes you can, gel gives a brighter color with very little quantity.

4.How to keep the cane shape intact?

You should chill the shaped cookies before baking, it helps them hold shape better.

5.Can I make this cookie ahead?

You can make the cookies and store them ahead. It stays well for a week .

If you have any more questions about this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook,  Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Candy Cane Cookies Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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Fruit and Nut Cookies are colorful little treats, soft inside and little crisp at the edges. They full of chopped nuts and dried fruits, makes every bite feel bit special. It tastes really good with tea or even cold milk. These cookies are nice anytime snack, specially during Christmas or some special occasions.

You can make this cookie when you want something that looks fancy but easy to bake at home. The mix of fruits and nuts adds both flavor and texture, so feels like every bite have little surprises. It is a cookie that fills eyes, heart and tummy all together. It's a must try recipe to munch on.

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About Fruit & Nut Cookies

Fruit and Nut Cookies are eggless buttery cookies made using dry fruits & nuts with flour, butter & sugar. The dough is soft and smooth, after baking the cookies comes out little crisp at edges and soft inside. You can either make them small or slightly bigger, both ways they tastes really good.

The dried fruits cranberries, apricots and grapes give tangy sweet taste, and pistachios and other nuts gives mild crunch. The flour and butter base gives gentle richness without making it too heavy. You can also add your favorite nuts or dried fruits depends on what you have at home.

These cookies are very versatile and can be made ahead because dough keeps well in fridge. The log method is nice because you can slice as need and bake fresh cookies every time. You can also roll small balls and bake them directly if want quick cookies.

I usually make these when friends come over because they look colorful and little fancy. They also makes nice small gifts in jars or tiny boxes, and everyone just loves them.

These fruit and nut cookies are so buttery and flavourful with the crunch in nuts and dry fruits that we loved it so much, it resembled and tasted like the karachi biscuits a lot.

Fruit and Nut Cookies Ingredients

• All purpose flour / maida - I have used this for soft cookie base, it gives smooth dough. I sometimes use wheat flour but cookies will be slightly denser.
• Butter - I used room temperature butter for smooth, creamy dough. I sometimes use homemade or store-bought, salted or unsalted with small adjustments in salt.
• Powdered sugar - I used this for sweetness and smooth mixing. I sometimes replace with brown sugar but the color will change slightly.
• Vanilla essence - I add this for flavor and smell, gives a gentle aroma. I sometimes use almond or any essence of choice.
• Dried cranberries - I have used these for tangy sweetness and little chewiness. I sometimes use any dried fruit like cherries also.
• Dry grapes / raisins - I add these for small bursts of sweetness, chopped for even mix. I skip if I want less sweet.
• Pistachios - I have used these for crunch and color, finely chopped works best. I sometimes replace with almonds or cashews.
• Apricots - I add these for slight tangy taste, finely chopped. I sometimes use dates or figs also.

Similar Recipes

• Fruit Cookies
• Basic cookie dough
• Ragi cookies
• Nutella cookies
• Shortbread cookies

How to make Fruit & Nut Cookies Step by Step

1.Measure and take butter in a mixing bowl, add powdered sugar to it.

2.Whisk it well,I used my hand whisk, you can use electric mixer too. Whisk it until creamy and fluffy.

3.Now add vanilla essence and salt. Finally add in the flour

4.Mix with a spatula to form a dough.

5.Now use your hands to roll into a ball, cling wrap it and refrigerate it.

6.I used half of the dough for this cookie. Chop the dry fruits and nuts. Now half portion of the prepared dough add the dry fruits and nuts.

7.Mix it well so that the dry fruits and nuts are evenly distributed. Now shape it into a log,place it on a butter paper.

8.Wrap it well, refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Slice the log. Preheat the oven at 180 deg C for 10 minutes.

9.Slice it  not too thick or too thin. Transfer  it to a baking tray lined with aluminium foil.Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden.

Cool down then store in airtight container.

Expert Tips

• Chilling the dough - I make sure to chill the log before slicing, it helps get neat cookie shapes. I sometimes chill in between if the dough feels soft.
• Cookie slicing - I try not slice too thick or too thin, otherwise baking time change. I usually use sharp knife for even slices.
• Baking time - I keep eye on edges, they turn golden first. I don't overbake, cookies gets crisp after cooling.
• Mixing fruits & nuts - I usually fold them gentle after making dough, ensures even distribution. I sometimes press few extra nuts on top for looks.
• Storage - I store in airtight box once cooled completely, keeps well for weeks in fridge. I sometimes separate layers with butter paper if storing long.

Serving and Storage

Serve them with tea, coffee or cold milk, they taste lovely anytime. This goes well as a small festive treat in jars or gift boxes. Store leftover cookies in airtight container once cooled. They stay fresh for weeks in fridge and can be enjoyed later as snack.

FAQS

1.Can I use other dry fruits?

Yes you can, use whatever you like or have at home, all will taste nice.

2.Why did my cookies become soft after baking?

It is normal, cookies get crisp after cooling. Don't over bake.

3.Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes you can keep it in fridge for 2-3 weeks and slice fresh when needed.

4.Can I add nuts directly with flour?

Yes you can, sometimes I do that, works fine too.

5.Do I need to slice logs evenly?

Try to, so that cookies bake evenly, otherwise some will be soft or over baked.

If you have any more questions about this Fruit & Nut Cookies Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook,  Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Fruit & Nut Cookies Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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Vegetable Au Gratin Recipe

Vegetable au Gratin is a classic baked dish made with tender mixed vegetables & mushrooms coated in a smooth white sauce and topped with a golden cheese layer. It’s simple food but feels both comforting and special. I often make it for weekend dinners or on days when I want something easy yet satisfying. If...

READ: Vegetable Au Gratin Recipe

Paneer Pav Bhaji Dip — A Bold, Cheesy Indian Dip

Paneer Pav Bhaji Dip is the ultimate party starter! This cheesy, spicy, fusion-style dip packs all the bold, buttery, street-food flavors of classic Indian Pav Bhaji-now transformed into a creamy, scoopable appetizer everyone will devour. This Pav Bhaji Dip is perfect for game nights, potlucks, holiday spreads, or anytime you need a quick, crowd-pleasing vegetarian […]

READ:Paneer Pav Bhaji Dip — A Bold, Cheesy Indian Dip

Stained Glass Cookies are such a cute and colorful treat, and sometimes I feel they look too pretty so you almost feel bad to bite into them. These come out slightly crisp at the edges with a soft bite inside, and that melted candy in the center gives the real glass like effect which kids get super excited about. Stained Glass Cookies are treat to eyes, heart & tummy and any time wonder snack. Stained Glass Cookies are a must try at home for its taste & for the joy of baking!

The best thing is the dough doesn't need any fancy steps or extra effort. The crushed candies melt nicely while baking and then set into a shiny centre once cooled. It goes so well with tea and also works like a sweet little edible gift. You can even hang them like ornaments if you poke a hole before baking. 

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About Stained Glass Cookies

Stained Glass Cookies are basically butter cookies made with a small cut out in the middle which we fill with crushed hard candies. Kids like it mainly for the colors and the glass effect. The vanilla in this recipe gives a nice bakery kind of feel and mixes well with the buttery dough. The dough also holds its shape pretty well since I usually chill it before rolling out.

This recipe uses a simple dough made using maida, powdered sugar and butter, so the flavor stays mild and sweet. I have used colored candies based on the theme, but you can mix any shades you want, each batch looks different and that's the fun part. Kids love helping with crushing the candies and filling the centres too.

You can go with any shapes like stars, flowers, hearts or whatever cutters you have. You just need one big cutter and one small cutter for the hollow part. The candies bubble slightly while baking and settle down beautifully after cooling. Sometimes I mix two candy colors for swirl patterns. 

Stained Glass Cookies is a dream come true for me. Yes I had been eyeing these cookies for the past 2 years and this year somehow gained confidence and tried it.The hard candies are crushed to fill in the center holes and while baking it spread out giving the cookies a glossy look. I clicked the cookies to hearts content and loved these clicks too, I couldn't take my eyes off, aren't they looking pretty?!

I usually bake these during holidays or family get-togethers as it brightens up the whole box and tastes really nice with a warm drink too.

Stained Glass Cookies Ingredients

• Maida / all purpose flour - I have used this as the base for the dough. It gives smooth texture and holds shape well. You can replace half with wheat flour but cookie turns slightly dense.
• Butter - This gives softness and flavor. I used room temperature butter so it mixes easily. Homemade butter also works.
• Powdered sugar - I added powdered sugar for sweetness and also to make dough come together softly. Fine sugar works but powdered gives smoother dough.
• Vanilla essence - This gives a light flavor and bakery smell. You can skip if you prefer plain buttery taste.
• Hard colored candies - These form the stained glass centre. Use any brand or mix colors for fun patterns.

Why This Recipe Works

• It is very simple dough and easy even for beginners.
• Cookies look colorful and pretty without much hard work.
• You can choose any shape or candy color according to your theme.
• Centres turn crisp after cooling and taste so good.
• You can prepare the dough earlier and bake whenever needed.

Similar Recipes

• Tutti Frutti cookies
• Almond cookies
• Ragi cookies
• Nutella cookies
• Shortbread cookies

How to make Stained Glass Cookies Step by Step

1.Measure and take butter in a mixing bowl, add powdered sugar to it

2.Whisk it well, I used my hand whisk, you can use electric mixer too. Whisk it until creamy and fluffy.

3.Now add vanilla essence and salt. Finally add in the flour

4.Mix with a spatula to form a dough.

5.Now use your hands to roll into a ball, cling wrap it and refrigerate it

6.I used only half of the dough for this cookie. Take your cookie cutters, you need a bigger one and a smaller one like this. Roll out the dough slightly thin. Cut out using the cookie cutters.

7.Remove the smaller flower.Now arrange it in a baking tray with parchment paper.Take a stick or toothpick. While you do this, Preheat oven at 180 deg C for 10 minutes.

8.Prick holes a the top of each cookies, incase you want to hang these cookies for decoration.Slice the log. Keep the baking temperature for 12 minutes. Bake the cookies for the first 9 minutes.

9.Take your candies, crush each color separately and keep it ready.

10.Now fill the holes with crushed candies,Bake for the remaining 3 minutes until it bubbles up. Let it cool down for few minutes.

11.Carefully remove the cookies and cool down in wirerack.

Cool down then store.

Expert Tips

• Chilling the dough - I make sure to chill well. I usually keep it for a while so cookies don't spread.
• Crushing candies - I always crush just before filling. Don't crush too early, they turn sticky later. 
• Baking time - Bake cookies first without candies, and then add candy later so it doesn't burn.
• Thickness - I prefer thin and even thickness so roll slightly thin. If too thick, candy may not melt evenly in centre.
• Cooling - Let the cookies cool fully. The centers harden only after cooling. And don't touch the center immediately since it will be hot.

Serving and Storage

Serve the cookies with milk, tea or even hot chocolate. They look nice on festive plates or packed in small gift boxes also. Store the leftover cookies in a airtight box only after it cools down completely. It will stays fresh for almost a week when kept in room temperature.

FAQS

1.Can I skip chilling the dough?

You can skip, but the cookies may spread out and lose shape. Chilling makes it behave better while baking.

2.Why did my cookie centre look dull?

Sometimes the candy just needed few extra seconds in the heat, or maybe it was crushed too fine, so it didn't shine much.

3.Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, the dough stays fine in the fridge for around 2-3 weeks, so you can prepare earlier also if you want.

4.What if the candy overflows?

That usually means the centre got a bit over-filled. Just reduce the candy a little next time.

5.Can I bake the candy along with the cookie?

You can, but it might get overcooked and lose color. Adding it in the last minutes gives better finish and texture.

If you have any more questions about this Stained Glass Cookies Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook,  Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Stained Glass Cookies Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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