Prep Time: 10 minutes Chill Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Difficulty Level: Easy Servings: 2 large drinks Ingredients For the Hibiscus Base 2 hibiscus tea bags 2 cups boiling water 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional) 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice For the Protein Refresher 1 cup brewed hibiscus tea, chilled 1
Equipment
- Heatproof pitcher or bowl
- Blender
- Measuring cups
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
- Tall serving glasses
- Long spoon
Ingredients
For the Hibiscus Base
- 2 hibiscus tea bags
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
For the Protein Refresher
- 1 cup brewed hibiscus tea, chilled
- 1 ready-to-drink vanilla protein shake (about 11–12 ounces)
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries)
- ½ cup cold water
- ½ cup ice cubes
- 1 teaspoon berry syrup or sugar-free berry syrup (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Fresh berries for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Brew the Hibiscus Tea
- Bring the water to a boil and pour it over the hibiscus tea bags.
- Steep for 8–10 minutes until the tea develops a rich ruby-red color.
- Remove the tea bags and stir in the honey and lemon juice if using.
- Allow the tea to cool completely, then refrigerate until chilled.
Step 2: Prepare the Berry Blend
- Place the frozen mixed berries, chilled hibiscus tea, and cold water into a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- If you prefer a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the berry seeds.
Step 3: Add the Protein
- Pour the berry mixture back into the blender.
- Add the vanilla protein shake and berry syrup if desired.
- Blend for 10–15 seconds , just until everything is combined. Avoid over-blending, as excessive blending may create extra foam.
Step 4: Assemble the Drinks
- Fill two tall glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the protein refresher evenly into each glass.
- Garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint for a vibrant finish.
- Serve immediately while cold.
Notes
Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. Shake well before serving, as separation is natural. Freezing: Freeze the berry base separately for up to 1 month, then blend with the protein shake when ready to serve. This refresher is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If needed:
Nutrition
Calories: 190 · Protein: 17 g · Fat: 2 g · Carbohydrates: 20 g · Saturated Fat: 0.5 g · Fiber: 4 g · Sugar: 14 g · Sodium: 170 mg
