
Brazilian lemonade is not only refreshingly tart and sweet but also uniquely creamy thanks to the touch of condensed milk. Perfect for warm days or as a fun twist on traditional drinks, this limeade comes together quickly and always impresses guests with its balanced, velvety flavor.
When I first learned to make Brazilian lemonade, I was surprised by how the creamy base changed everything. It instantly became one of my go-to recipes for cookouts and pool days.
Ingredients
- Cold filtered water: brings out a cleaner taste and makes the drink extra thirst-quenching
- Fresh limes: use unpeeled wedges for bold citrus flavor and signature tartness select limes with smooth skin and a bright green color for peak freshness
- Granulated sugar: classic sweetness that dissolves easily look for fine sugar to help it blend well
- Sweetened condensed milk: responsible for the iconic creamy texture and rich taste check that the can is not expired
- Ice cubes: keep things frosty and refreshing use clear ice for the best look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Limes:
- Wash limes thoroughly under running water then cut them into equal-sized wedges leaving the peel on for extra flavor
- Blend the Mixture:
- Add cold filtered water lime wedges and granulated sugar into your blender Blend on high until you no longer see large lime pieces and the liquid turns opaque with flecks of green
- Strain Well:
- Pour this mixture through a fine mesh strainer over a wide bowl Let the mesh catch all pulp and solids pressing gently with a spoon to extract every drop of liquid
- Cream the Lemonade:
- Quickly rinse the blender to remove any leftover pulp Pour the strained lime liquid back in Add sweetened condensed milk Start with the base amount and blend until the drink looks frothy and fully incorporated Taste and adjust sweetened condensed milk if you like it creamier
- Serve Over Ice:
- Fill your favorite glasses to the top with ice cubes Pour the creamy limeade over The drink looks beautiful with its creamy color and frothy top If you like garnish with a thin lime slice right before serving

My favorite part is that splash of sweetened condensed milk it reminds me of street markets in Brazil where vendors whip this up on hot afternoons I still remember the first time my kids tried it and instantly asked for seconds
Storage Tips
Brazilian lemonade tastes best within an hour or so of making It can thicken in the fridge because of the condensed milk If you plan to store leftovers give the drink a good shake or stir before serving Add a splash of filtered water to loosen if needed Avoid freezing as the texture will not recover well after thawing
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of sweetened condensed milk try using sweetened coconut milk for a dairy free twist though the flavor will change Avoid substituting with plain milk or cream as it will not add enough richness or sweetness Use regular lemons if limes are unavailable but be ready for a very different flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lemonade as a fun beverage at barbecues family gatherings or picnics It is perfect alongside grilled meats spicy foods or any Latin American fare For a party vibe add colorful straws and plenty of ice or stir in a splash of sparkling water for fizz

Cultural and Historical Context
Despite the name Brazilian lemonade is actually limeade in its homeland In Brazil it is known as limonada suíça Swiss lemonade and is a beloved fixture at juice bars The secret to its creamy taste is blending the whole lime with condensed milk a tradition that dates back decades
Recipe FAQs
- → Why are whole limes used—including the zest and rind?
The zest and rind contribute extra citrus flavor and a bold tartness, giving the drink its distinctive punch. Straining removes bitterness, so only the bright notes remain.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness or creaminess?
Absolutely. You can vary the amount of sugar and sweetened condensed milk to balance tartness and richness according to your taste.
- → How do I prevent bitterness in the final drink?
It's important to strain the blended lime mixture thoroughly, removing pulp and solids. This reduces bitterness from the rind.
- → Is it necessary to use filtered water?
Filtered or purified water helps produce a clean, refreshing taste, but any cold water can be used if needed.
- → Can this drink be made ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, as lime juice can become bitter over time. If preparing ahead, blend and strain but add condensed milk and ice just before serving.