Creamy Brazilian Lemonade, often referred to as Brazilian limeade, is a refreshing and surprisingly indulgent drink made with whole fresh limes and sweetened condensed milk. Unlike traditional lemonade, this version blends citrus with creaminess, creating a smooth, tangy beverage that feels both cooling and satisfying.
Popular throughout Brazil, this drink is known for its balance of bright acidity and mellow sweetness. The limes provide bold citrus flavor, while the condensed milk softens the sharpness, resulting in a silky texture and lightly frothy finish. Ready in just minutes, this lemonade is ideal for warm weather, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a unique non-alcoholic drink with global inspiration.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it carefully balances acidity, sweetness, and texture.
The use of whole limes provides intense citrus flavor without relying on bottled juice. Brief blending extracts essential oils from the peel while avoiding bitterness when strained promptly. Sweetened condensed milk adds richness and sweetness while creating a creamy mouthfeel that distinguishes this drink from standard limeade.
Blending twice—once for extraction and once for emulsification—ensures a smooth, cohesive beverage with a light froth and consistent flavor throughout. The result is a drink that feels indulgent yet refreshing, with complexity achieved through simple ingredients and proper technique.
Recipe Info
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Drinks / Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Cuisine: Brazilian / South American
Ingredient Breakdown
Fresh Limes
Whole limes are the foundation of this recipe, delivering vibrant citrus flavor and aromatic oils. Blending briefly prevents bitterness while maximizing freshness.
Cold Filtered Water
Cold water keeps the drink refreshing and prevents the citrus from tasting overly sharp.
Granulated Sugar
Balances the acidity of the limes and provides sweetness. Amount can be adjusted to taste.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
Adds creaminess, sweetness, and a silky texture that defines Brazilian lemonade.
Ice Cubes
Essential for serving, enhancing chill and refreshment.
Lime Slices (Optional Garnish)
Add visual appeal and reinforce citrus aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Citrus Base
Add cold water, lime wedges, and sugar to a blender. Blend for 20–30 seconds until the limes are fully broken down. Do not overblend to avoid bitterness.
Step 2: Strain the Mixture
Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl and pour the blended mixture through. Discard the pulp and lime solids.
Step 3: Add Condensed Milk
Rinse the blender and return the strained liquid to it. Add the sweetened condensed milk.
Step 4: Final Blend
Blend again until smooth, creamy, and lightly frothy.
Step 5: Serve
Fill glasses with ice, pour the lemonade over the top, garnish with lime slices if desired, and serve immediately.
Texture and Flavor Profile
Creamy Brazilian Lemonade is smooth, lightly frothy, and refreshing. The initial taste is bright and citrus-forward, followed by gentle sweetness and a creamy finish. The condensed milk rounds out the acidity without masking the lime flavor, creating a balanced drink that is both bold and approachable.
Tips for Best Results
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Blend the limes briefly to avoid bitterness
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Strain immediately after blending
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Use fresh, thin-skinned limes
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Serve immediately for best flavor and texture
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Adjust condensed milk to taste preference
Variations
Lighter Version
Reduce condensed milk and add extra water for a thinner drink.
Extra Creamy
Increase condensed milk slightly for a dessert-style beverage.
Mint Limeade
Add fresh mint leaves during the final blend.
Frozen Brazilian Lemonade
Blend with ice for a slushy-style drink.
Sugar-Free Option
Use a sugar substitute and unsweetened condensed milk alternative.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve alongside grilled dishes or summer meals
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Pair with light snacks or fresh fruit
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Offer as a non-alcoholic option at parties
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Serve in clear glasses to showcase the frothy texture
Storage and Reheating
This drink is best served immediately.
If needed, refrigerate for up to 12 hours in a sealed container. Stir or re-blend briefly before serving, as separation may occur. Do not freeze once prepared.
Nutrition Overview
Approximate per serving:
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Calories: 183 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 44 g
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Sugar: 37 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Fat: 2 g
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Fiber: 2 g
Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brazilian lemonade actually made with lemons?
No. It is traditionally made with limes despite the name.
Does the lime peel make it bitter?
Not if blended briefly and strained immediately.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use coconut condensed milk or a plant-based alternative.
Can this be made ahead?
It’s best fresh, but can be refrigerated short-term if needed.
Why is it creamy?
Sweetened condensed milk creates the signature creamy texture.
Creamy Brazilian Lemonade is a simple yet unforgettable drink that transforms everyday ingredients into something unique and refreshing. Its balance of tangy citrus and smooth sweetness makes it ideal for warm weather, entertaining, or whenever you want a standout non-alcoholic beverage.
Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this Brazilian classic proves that bold flavor doesn’t require complicated steps—just the right technique and quality ingredients.
Creamy Brazilian Lemonade
Ingredients
- 6 cups cold filtered water
- 5 fresh limes cut into wedges
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk adjust to taste
- Ice cubes for serving
- Lime slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Add the cold water, lime wedges, and sugar to a blender. Blend for about 20–30 seconds until the limes are fully broken down.
- Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large bowl and pour the blended mixture through it. Discard the pulp and lime solids.
- Rinse the blender, then pour the strained liquid back in. Add the sweetened condensed milk.
- Blend again until smooth, creamy, and lightly frothy.
- Fill glasses with ice and pour the limeade over the top. Garnish with fresh lime slices if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
