Loaded Tea Recipe (Energy Drink Style)

Cold brewed tea: A refreshing base for the drink, providing a smooth and mellow tea flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds a zesty and tangy kick to balance the sweetness.

Honey: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor and provides a touch of sweetness.

Protein powder: Boosts the nutritional value, making the drink more filling and beneficial.

Ice cubes: Keeps the drink chilled and refreshing.

When blending the protein powder with the cold brewed tea, make sure to start on a low setting to avoid clumping. Gradually increase the speed to ensure a smooth and even consistency. This technique helps to fully incorporate the honey and lemon juice into the mixture, enhancing the overall flavor of your loaded tea.

• cold brewed tea - Substitute with green tea: Green tea provides a similar caffeine boost and has a refreshing flavor.

• cold brewed tea - Substitute with herbal tea: Herbal tea offers a caffeine-free option with a variety of flavors.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar tartness and citrus flavor.

• lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds acidity and a unique tangy flavor.

• honey - Substitute with agave syrup: Agave syrup is a plant-based sweetener with a similar consistency to honey.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a natural sweetness with a distinct flavor.

• protein powder - Substitute with collagen powder: Collagen powder provides protein and is often flavorless, making it a versatile substitute.

• protein powder - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt adds protein and a creamy texture to the drink.

• ice cubes - Substitute with frozen fruit: Frozen fruit cools the drink while adding natural sweetness and flavor.

• ice cubes - Substitute with crushed ice: Crushed ice provides a similar cooling effect and can be easier to blend.

• To keep your loaded tea fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in and keep it tasting just as good as when you first made it.

• Place the container in the refrigerator if you plan to enjoy your energy drink within the next 24 hours. The cold temperature will help maintain its refreshing quality.

• If you want to keep your loaded tea for a longer period, consider freezing it. Pour the tea mixture into ice cube trays and freeze until solid. This way, you can easily pop out a few cubes and blend them whenever you need a quick energy boost.

• When freezing, make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container or ice cube tray. Liquids expand when they freeze, and this will prevent any potential mess.

• For the best texture, avoid freezing the protein powder separately. Instead, blend it with the tea and other ingredients before freezing.

• If you prefer a slushier consistency, blend the frozen tea cubes with a bit of cold water or tea when you're ready to enjoy it. This will give you a refreshing, icy drink that's perfect for hot days.

• Always label your containers with the date you made the loaded tea. This will help you keep track of how long it's been stored and ensure you're consuming it at its freshest.

• If you notice any changes in color, texture, or smell, it's best to discard the loaded tea. Freshness is key to enjoying the best flavor and benefits from your energy drink.

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh lemon slices or a sprig of mint to your stored tea. This can enhance the taste and make your drink even more enjoyable.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Pour the cold brewed tea mixture into a small saucepan.
  2. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
  3. Once the mixture is warm (not hot), remove from heat and pour into a glass.
  4. Add a few ice cubes if desired to cool it slightly before drinking.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the loaded tea into a microwave-safe mug or container.
  2. Heat on medium power for 30 seconds.
  3. Stir well and check the temperature.
  4. If needed, continue heating in 10-second intervals until it reaches your preferred warmth.
  5. Pour over ice cubes if you want it chilled again.

• Water Bath Method:

  1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
  2. Place the container with the loaded tea into the warm water, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the container.
  3. Let it sit for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute the warmth.
  4. Once warmed to your liking, pour into a glass and add ice cubes if desired.

• Blender Method:

  1. Pour the loaded tea back into the blender.
  2. Add a few more ice cubes to refresh the chill.
  3. Blend on low for a few seconds until the mixture is smooth and cold again.
  4. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

• Blender: Essential for combining all the ingredients into a smooth, cohesive drink.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure out the cold brewed tea accurately.

• Tablespoon: Necessary for measuring the lemon juice and honey precisely.

• Ice cube tray: To freeze water into ice cubes, which will chill the drink.

• Glass: For serving the finished loaded tea.

• Spoon: Useful for scooping the protein powder into the blender.

Pre-brew the tea: Brew a large batch of cold brewed tea in advance and store it in the fridge to save time.

Use lemon juice concentrate: Opt for bottled lemon juice instead of squeezing fresh lemons.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the honey and protein powder ahead of time and store them in small containers.

Use ice packs: Keep ice cubes in a ziplock bag in the freezer for easy access.

Blend in bulk: Make multiple servings at once and store them in the fridge for quick access.