Brazilian Lemonade, a creamy and refreshing twist on classic lemonade, is made with fresh limes, sugar, water, and sweetened condensed milk. This delicious drink is tart, sweet, and perfectly creamy—an irresistible treat that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether for a summer gathering or a simple refreshing drink, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort.
- Refreshing and Unique: Combines tart limes and creamy sweetened condensed milk for a one-of-a-kind flavor.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family gatherings, picnics, or relaxing afternoons.
- Simple Ingredients: Only four main ingredients make this drink easy and accessible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 6 cups cold water (filtered or purified recommended)
- 5 limes, cut into wedges (use the whole lime, including the skin)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (or more to taste)
- Ice (for serving)
Equipment
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer
Directions
1. Blend the Base
- Add the cold water, lime wedges, and granulated sugar to a blender. Blend until the lime wedges are completely broken down and the mixture is smooth.
2. Strain the Mixture
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl and pour the blended mixture into the strainer.
- Discard the lime pulp and zest left in the strainer, reserving the strained liquid.
3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Rinse out the blender and pour the strained lime juice mixture back into it.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and blend until smooth and frothy. Adjust the sweetness by adding more condensed milk if desired.
4. Serve
- Fill glasses with ice and pour the Brazilian lemonade over the top. Garnish with fresh lime slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Minty Fresh: Add a few fresh mint leaves to the blender for a refreshing twist.
- Coconut Fusion: Replace half the water with coconut water for a tropical flavor.
- Alcoholic Version: Add a splash of rum or vodka for a boozy treat.
- Sweeter Taste: Increase the sweetened condensed milk or add honey for extra sweetness.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Stir before serving, as separation may occur.
- Freezing: Pour into ice cube trays and freeze for longer storage. Blend with fresh lime juice when ready to serve.
FAQs
1. Why use whole limes in the blender?
Using the whole lime, including the skin, adds a more intense citrus flavor. The bitterness from the zest is balanced by the sugar and condensed milk.
2. Can I use lemons instead of limes?
Yes, but the flavor will be different as lemons are sweeter and less tart than limes.
3. Is this drink really a “lemonade”?
While it’s called lemonade, it’s traditionally made with limes, which are commonly used in Brazilian recipes.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best flavor, prepare it fresh. If made ahead, store in the fridge for up to 1 day and stir well before serving.
5. Can I use lime juice instead of whole limes?
Whole limes provide a richer, more authentic flavor, but you can substitute with ¾ cup lime juice for convenience.
6. What type of sweetened condensed milk works best?
Any brand of sweetened condensed milk works, but full-fat varieties yield the creamiest results.
7. How can I make it dairy-free?
Use sweetened coconut milk or almond milk instead of condensed milk, but note the texture will be less creamy.
8. Why strain the mixture?
Straining removes the lime pulp and zest, ensuring a smooth and refreshing drink.
9. What’s the best way to garnish this drink?
Fresh lime slices, mint leaves, or even a sugared rim add a decorative touch.
10. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, add more sugar or sweetened condensed milk to taste.
Conclusion
Brazilian Lemonade is a creamy, tart, and refreshing drink that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. With its vibrant citrus flavor and frothy texture, it’s the perfect drink for hot days or special gatherings. Give this unique twist on lemonade a try, and you’ll see why it’s a beloved favorite!
Print
Brazilian Lemonade
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: Brazilian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Brazilian Lemonade is a refreshing 4-ingredient drink made with fresh limes, water, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. Creamy, tart, and sweet, this unique twist on classic lemonade is easy to prepare and perfect for hot summer days or any gathering.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cold water (filtered or purified recommended)
- 5 limes, cut into wedges (include skin and all)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste)
- Ice for serving
- Fresh lime slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Blend the Limes and Water:
- Add the cold water, lime wedges, and granulated sugar to a blender. Blend until the lime wedges are fully broken down and the mixture is smooth.
- Strain the Mixture:
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the blended mixture into the strainer. Allow the liquid to filter through while catching the pulp and zest in the strainer.
- Discard the leftover pulp and lime pieces.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Rinse the blender to remove any residue.
- Pour the strained lime mixture back into the blender. Add the sweetened condensed milk and blend again until the drink is smooth and frothy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Fill glasses with ice and pour the Brazilian lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish with fresh lime slices for an extra touch.
Notes
- Limes: Use the whole lime (skin and all) when blending to achieve the full flavor. The straining step ensures no bitterness from the peel remains.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to suit your preferred sweetness level.
- Water: Filtered or purified water enhances the drink’s taste and ensures it’s crisp and refreshing.
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