A Refreshing 4-Ingredient Summer Drink
Brazilian Lemonade is a creamy, sweet-tart drink made with fresh limes, cold water, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. It’s incredibly refreshing, surprisingly simple to make, and absolutely addictive. One sip of this frothy citrus drink and you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Just 4 Ingredients – No complicated steps or exotic items here. You likely have everything you need.
- Totally Customizable – Make it sweeter, creamier, or even add alcohol for a fun twist.
- Unique and Delicious – The whole-lime blending method gives it bold flavor and a rich texture that’s unlike anything else.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 5 whole limes – Washed and cut into wedges. Yes, the skin goes in the blender!
- 6 cups cold water – Filtered or purified water gives the cleanest taste.
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk – Adjust to taste.
- Ice – For serving.
How to Make Brazilian Lemonade
- Blend the Base:
Add lime wedges, cold water, and sugar to a blender. Blend until the limes are completely broken down. - Strain:
Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl to remove the pulp, skins, and zest. Press gently to extract all the juice. Discard solids. - Blend Again:
Rinse the blender, then pour in the strained juice and add the sweetened condensed milk. Blend briefly until creamy and frothy. - Serve:
Pour over a glass filled with ice and garnish with lime slices if desired. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Tips for the Best Brazilian Lemonade
- Use whole limes, skin and all! Blending the peel gives a strong lime flavor, while straining ensures the final drink is silky smooth.
- Don’t skip the straining step – It removes bitterness from the peel and improves texture.
- Make it sweeter or creamier by adjusting the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your taste.
- Serve fresh. This drink is best enjoyed immediately, as it may separate or lose its frothy consistency if it sits too long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really made with limes?
Yes! Though called lemonade, Brazilian Lemonade is actually made with limes, not lemons.
Is it authentic?
This recipe is inspired by the traditional Brazilian version (often called limonada suíça), though the use of sweetened condensed milk is a popular twist.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served right after making. If needed, you can prep the lime juice and store it separately, blending in the sweetened condensed milk right before serving.
Can I add alcohol?
Sure! Add a splash of vodka, rum, or cachaça for an adult version.
Equipment Recommendation
A fine mesh strainer is essential to separate the juice from the pulp and peel. We recommend something sturdy like the OXO Fine Mesh Strainer Set.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 183 | Carbs: 44g | Sugar: 37g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Vitamin C: 25mg | Calcium: 93mg
Brazilian Lemonade is the ultimate summer refresher—creamy, citrusy, and totally crave-worthy. Whether you serve it at cookouts, brunches, or as a midday treat, this drink is sure to impress. Cheers!