Brazilian Lemonade | Brazilian Lemonade Without Bitterness | Summer cooler | Kitchenstagram
Looking for a drink that screams summer in every sip? Brazilian Lemonade is the answer. Despite its name, this vibrant drink is made with limes- not lemon- and blends tart citrus with creamy sweetness for a flavour experience that’s totally unique.
This drink is staple on hot days across Brazil, known locally as limonada suìca or “Swiss Lemonade,” a name that nods to the swiss branding on the original Nestlé condensed milk introduced in Brazil decades ago. While some might expect lemonade to be made from bright yellow lemons, in many parts of Brazil, those are rare. Instead, juicy green limes- especially the popular limão-taiti- are the citrus of choice for nearly all “lemonade” recipes.
What truly sets Brazilian Lemonade apart? The unlikely but brilliant addition of sweetened condensed milk. Condensed milk gives the drink its luscious, silky, frothy texture and slightly sweet, indulgent flavour, that balances the zing of fresh limes perfectly. The result is a frosty, tangy concoction that’s often blended with ice and served chilled. Think of it as a citrusy smoothie-meets-milkshake hybrid that feels indulgent but is incredibly easy to whip up.
With just four ingredients- lime, sweetened condensed milk, sugar and water- you’re less than five minutes away from the most refreshing drink you’ve had all year. Its made with fresh limes! And not just any limes- these are straight from my garden, bursting with bright, zesty flavour. The trick to getting it right? A quick method to reduce bitterness: zest the lime first and then remove the white pith from the limes before blending. That way, you’re left with nothing but bold, zesty flavour and smooth, sweet refreshment.
The result is a drink that’s cool, creamy and totally crave-worthy. Brazilian lemonade is a crowd-pleaser-kids loves it, adults ask for seconds and it’s practically made for backyard hangouts and sunny afternoons. If you’re a fan of ley lime pie, this might become your new favorite beverage.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Minimal ingredients & maximum flavour: Just a few kitchen staples turn into something special.
A taste of the tropic: Creamy, citrusy and cool- perfect for warm weather refreshment.
Customizable: Keep it classic, spike it for cocktail or top with soda for a fizz twist.
Unexpectedly smooth: The richness of condensed milk balances the lime’s tang beautifully.
Visually Fun: Frothy, fresh and vibrant- it looks as good as it tastes.
Ingredients needed for Brazilian Lemonade:
This refreshing tropical drink comes together with just four simple ingredients, each playing a key role in creating the perfect blend of tart, sweet and creamy.
Fresh Limes: Brazilian Lemonade is a bit of a misnomer- no lemons here! Instead, fresh limes are the star. Use regular lime rather than key limes for their juicier flesh and bright citrus aroma. For the best flavour, pick limes that are slightly soft to the touch and fragrant. Mine are homegrown and organically cultivated, adding an extra burst of garden-fresh zest.
Condensed Milk: This is what gives Brazilian lemonade its signature creamy twist. It not only sweetens the drink but also brings a rich, velvety consistency that sets it apart from standard citrus beverages. Skip evaporated milk-only sweetened condensed milk will do.
Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar enhances the overall flavour and balances the acidity of the limes. While some recipes rely solely on condensed milk, a little extra sweetness makes all the difference.
Cold water & Ice: Start with chilled water to ensure your drink stays frosty longer. The ice cools it further and helps achieve a slushy, invigorating texture. Avoid room-temperature water, which can dilute the flavour too quickly.
Storage Tips:
Keep any remaining Brazilian Lemonade chilled in a sealed container for up to four days. Separation is natural- just mix well before pouring. For best taste and texture, enjoy it within a few days while it’s still fresh and frothy.
Ingredients
4 nos. Lime
1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
1/2 cup Condensed Milk
4 cups Cold Water
Ice Cubes
Lime slices, for serving
Preparation
- Step 1: Rinse the limes thoroughly and then pat it dry with a clean towel. Hold the lime and gently scrape the outer green skin against the grater, rotating the lime as you go and set it aside. Avoid the white pith underneath the green peel as it is very bitter.
- Step 2: Then remove the white pith from the limes, slice them into quarters and remove the membrane and seeds.
- Step 3: In a blender add lime slices, lime zest, granulated sugar, condensed milk and ice cubes. Blend for 20-30 seconds.
- Step 4: After blending, strain the mixture using a sieve.
- Step 5: Fill a serving glass with ice cubes, pour in the Brazilian Lemonade and garnish with a lime slice.
- Step 6: Serve immediately & enjoy!!
About Me
DEBJANI MONDAL
Welcome to Kitchenstagram, the home of delicious recipes, culinary inspiration and cooking adventures. I’m Debjani and I’m thrilled to be your guide through the wonderful world of food. I’m a self-taught professional baker, home chef, recipe developer, author of Kitchenstagram and an aspiring YouTuber.
My passion for food and cooking began at a very young age, when I would watch my mom and dad cook for me and my brother. My dad, in particular is a great cook whose culinary skills made a lasting impression on me. My dad would cook up a storm on special occasions by cooking variety of dishes, from delicious biriyani to samosa, fish fry, rasgullas and kachoris (sweet & spicy deep fried pastry with filling of lentils, meat or fish…>>>>>
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