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This creamy Brazilian Lemonade combines fresh limes, sugar, water, and sweetened condensed milk for a sweet-tart drink that is refreshing and perfect on a hot day. It is the sort of drink you crave when regular lemonade feels too plain and your taste buds need a wake-up call.
This recipe turned into a summer tradition for us the first time I made it for a backyard barbecue. The kids beg for extra limes just to make this again the next day.
Ingredients
- Cold water: gives you a smooth base and helps dilute the acidity. Choose filtered or bottled for the cleanest taste
- Fresh whole limes: add vibrant flavor and a beautiful green color. Look for limes that feel heavy for their size and have smooth skin
- Granulated sugar: balances the tartness. Pure cane sugar will give the cleanest flavor
- Sweetened condensed milk: creates a creamy decadent texture and ties all the flavors together. Pick a brand with just milk and sugar listed
- Ice: is essential for properly chilling and serving the lemonade extra cold
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend the Limes and Sugar:
- Combine the cold water, lime wedges, and granulated sugar in your blender. Pulse or blend on high until the limes are fully broken down and the mixture looks cloudy with little bits of zest floating around. This should take about forty-five seconds
- Strain the Mixture:
- Set a fine mesh strainer over a large bowl. Carefully pour your blended mixture into the strainer allowing the liquid to drip through while catching the solids below. Use a spoon to gently press if needed until you have pressed out every drop
- Rinse and Return:
- Rinse out your blender pitcher to keep your lemonade pure and smooth. Pour the strained lime juice mixture from the bowl back into the clean blender
- Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
- Add the sweetened condensed milk and blend again for about thirty seconds until everything mixes into a pale frothy liquid
- Serve Over Ice:
- Fill your favorite glasses generously with ice. Pour the creamy lemonade over the top and garnish with fresh lime slices for a pop of color
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Using the whole lime really boosts the flavor. I always love the sweetened condensed milk addition because it reminds me of family celebrations from my childhood. This drink brings me back to happy summer afternoons outdoors.
Storage Tips
Brazilian Lemonade tastes best right after blending as the flavor of lime can turn bitter if left too long with the peel. If you need to store it chill in the fridge for up to one day and stir well before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have sweetened condensed milk you can use a mix of evaporated milk and a bit more sugar but the richness will change. You can also swap regular white sugar for raw or even honey for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pour this drink into mason jars with colorful straws for picnics or outdoor parties. Top with extra lime slices or a mint sprig to make it even more festive.
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Cultural Context
Despite being called lemonade Brazilian Lemonade is made with limes instead of lemons. In Brazil this is called limonada suíça and is often served in cafés. The creamy touch of sweetened condensed milk is a classic Brazilian trick to elevate simple drinks or desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use whole limes, including the skin?
Blending whole limes, skin and all, infuses the drink with deep citrus flavor and subtle bitterness, balanced by sweetness.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, add more or less sugar and condensed milk to suit your taste. Mix, sample, and tweak for the perfect flavor balance.
- → Is it necessary to strain the blended mixture?
Straining removes the pulp, zest, and skin, resulting in a silky smooth limeade without bitterness or gritty texture.
- → What type of water should I use?
For best results, choose filtered or purified water, as it keeps the drink clear and fresh-tasting.
- → Can I make Brazilian lemonade ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare and chill the strained, blended mixture in advance. Shake before serving.
- → What garnishes work well?
Fresh lime slices or a sprig of mint add aroma, visual appeal, and extra zest to each glass.