BEST Recipe for Brazilian Lemonade

Brazilian Lemonade, also known as Brazilian Limeade, has taken the internet by storm for its unique blend of flavors! With just four simple ingredients, I’ve honed the recipe to perfection, achieving the perfect harmony of zesty, fresh lime flavor and the velvety sweetness of condensed milk. Trust in this proven method to delight with every sip!

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up close of Brazilian lemonade showing the frothy texture

What is Brazilian Lemonade?

Brazilian Lemonade is a vibrant and refreshing drink perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day or adding a burst of flavor to any gathering! Despite its name, this delicious beverage is made with limes, not lemons, and boasts a creamy twist thanks to sweetened condensed milk. This “Limanada” is simple to make with tangy limes (peel and all) blended with cool water and sugar, then stirred with condensed milk to creamy, frothy perfection. It’s like a tropical vacation in a glass!

Why is it called Brazilian Lemonade?

You are probably wondering why Brazilian Lemonade is called “lemonade” when it’s made with limes instead of lemons. In Brazil, “limonada” refers to limes because lemons aren’t as common. This delightful drink is known locally as “limonada suíça,” or Swiss Lemonade, named after Swiss-brand Nestle’s sweetened condensed milk used in the recipe, which features a Swiss milkmaid on the label. So, while we call it Brazilian Lemonade, it’s essentially limeade with a creamy twist. Despite the name, what matters most is that it’s incredibly delicious!

Why you will love this Recipe for Brazilian Lemonade:

Effortlessly Refreshing: This gourmet-tasting recipe is ready in less than 15 minutes!
Simple Ingredients: With just four common ingredients, you can create a luxurious drink that impresses every time. This simplicity ensures that you can master this recipe with ease.
Unbeatable Flavor WITHOUT Bitterness: Many Brazilian Lemonade recipes are bitter because of incorrect technique—not this recipe! The art of this recipe lies in selecting the correct limes, the proper ratio of ingredients, and the best method to achieve the ideal balance of tart, fresh lime flavor with the smooth sweetness of condensed milk.
Whole Limes: Pulsing whole limes captures the essence of the juice and the aromatic oils from the rind for unbeatable flavor.
Versatile: This recipe is not just for one occasion. It’s ideal for any event, from summer cookouts to cozy gatherings, and can be enjoyed year-round.
Customizable: It’s easy to tweak to your taste, whether you prefer it more tart or extra creamy. I’ve also included lots of variations, such as adding mint, berries, pineapple, etc.

Brazilian lemonade recipe being served in a pitcher

Brazilian Lemonade Ingredients

Let’s take a closer look at the what you’ll need to make this Brazilian Lemonade recipe (measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Limes: Fresh, juicy limes provide the essential citrus flavor that defines Brazilian Limeade. Look for bright green limes with thin, smooth skins (usually smaller ones) because they tend to be juicier and have less pith, reducing the risk of bitterness.
Sugar: Use granulated sugar for the cleanest flavor to balance the tartness while enhancing the natural flavor of the limes. The amount of sugar can be adjusted to suit personal preference.
Water: Use cold water to ensure the Lemonade is cool and refreshing without needing as much ice, which can dilute the flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: A MUST! The condensed milk gives the Brazilian Limonada its distinctive rich, creamy texture and a sweet, milky flavor that complements the tartness of the limes, balancing the overall taste. If you skip it, your drink will be way too tart.

Brazilian Limeade variations

Make it Minty: Add fresh mint leaves to the blender for a refreshing herbal twist.
Use Sparkling Water: Substitute part of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy version.
Berry Twist: Blend in fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fruity flavor.
Tropical Twist: Mix in other tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, or passion fruit for an exotic twist.
Ginger Spice: Add a small piece of fresh ginger to the blender for a hint of spice.
Coconut: Use coconut milk or coconut water instead of part of the water for a creamy, coconut-infused version.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Vegan: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or almond condensed milk.

top view of Brazilian limeade served in a jar with ice

How to make Brazilian Lemonade

Let’s take a closer look at how to make Brazilian Lemonade with step-by-step photos (full recipe in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post):

Step 1: Prepare the Limes. Wash the limes thoroughly. Cut off the ends and cut them in half. Quarter each half of the limes to create 1/8ths.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by trimming the ends off of limes and slicing them in quarters

Step 2: Add the Ingredients to a Blender. Add half of the water, half of the sugar, and half of the limes to a blender.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by adding half of the sugar, water and limes to a blender

Step 3: Blend. Pulse 5-7 times to partially break up the limes. Don’t pulverize them or the drink will be bitter.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by blending the mixture for 5-7 pulses

Step 4: Strain the Mixture. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, using a spoon to press the lime pulp and extract as much juice as possible. Discard the skins and pulp. Repeat the process with the remaining water, sugar, and limes.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by straining the mixture through a fine mesh sieve

Step 5: Sweeten. Add the sweetened condensed milk and whisk vigorously until frothy.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by adding the sweetened condensed milk and whisking vigorously to combine

Step 6: Serve. Serve immediately by pouring the drink over glasses with ice. Don’t add ice directly to the pitcher, or it will dilute the flavor.

showing how to make Brazilian Lemonade by whisking the sweetened condensed milk until frothy

TIPS For Making brazilian lemonade

This recipe for Brazilian Lemonade is simple to make, but it’s important to follow these tips:

Use Fresh, Whole Limes: The key to the signature flavor is using fresh limes, peel and all. No other substitutions, not even lime juice, can replicate the unique taste of real, whole limes.
Look for Thin-Skinned Limes. Thin-skinned limes have less pith, the white inner part of the peel, which reduces the risk of bitterness in the drink.
Chop the Ends: Chop the thick, white ends off the limes. Removing some of the pith reduces bitterness.
Avoid Overblending: Blend just enough to mix the ingredients without releasing too much bitterness. Overblending can introduce more pith and disrupt the delicate balance of flavors in your limeade.
Don’t Skip the Sweetened Condensed Milk: The milk is critical for creaminess and to balance tartness.
Adjust to Taste: If the Lemonade is too tart due to bitter limes, you may need to add extra sugar or milk. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, stir in additional lime juice or zest.
Add Ice to Individual Glasses: Don’t add ice to the pitcher; it will water down the flavor.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy the limeade fresh for the best taste. It will become increasingly bitter the longer it sits and the limes break down, so it’s best to serve it immediately.

a pitcher of Brazilian lemonade recipe showing how creamy it is

What to serve with Brazilian Limeade

Brazilian Limeade pairs well with a variety of dishes, especially those that complement its refreshing, tangy flavor. Here are some great options to serve with it:

Grilled Meats: Brazilian Lemonade is perfect alongside grilled meats like carne asada steak, chipotle chicken, chili lime chicken, or al pastor, especially in a churrasco (Brazilian barbecue) setting.
Slow Cooker Meats: Serve it alongside other South American favorites like Mexican shredded chicken, salsa verde chicken, beef barbacoa, cochinita pibil, carnitas, or chipotle pork.
Seafood: The citrusy drink pairs nicely with seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp, fish tacos, ceviche, and cilantro lime salmon.
Tacos: street tacos, Baja fish tacos, chicken tacos
Salads: Fresh salads with ingredients like avocado, mango, or citrus fruits complement the lemonade’s bright flavors. Mango salad, Southwest salad and Mexican salad all pair beautifully.
Empanadas or Coxinhas: These savory snacks, often filled with chicken, beef, or cheese, are delicious with the sweet and tart drink.
Cheese Bread (Pão de Queijo): The soft, cheesy texture of Brazilian cheese bread is a popular snack that goes great with limonada.
Pastel: These crispy, fried pastries filled with cheese, meat, or other fillings are a perfect match.
Rice and Beans: A simple dish of rice and beans, a staple in Brazilian cuisine, is balanced well by the drink’s zesty flavor.
Desserts: Light, fruity desserts like coconut flan, passion fruit mousse, or fresh fruit sorbet pair beautifully.

How to store Brazilian Limonada

Brazilian Lemonade is best enjoyed fresh because it can become increasingly bitter and separate so I don’t suggest storing longer than a few hours. If you must store Brazilian lemonade, follow these steps:

1. Use an Airtight Container: To help maintain the flavor, pour it into an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Refrigerate Immediately: To keep the Lemonade fresh, place the container in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Store for up to 24 hours, but it is best if enjoyed within the first few hours.
3. Shake or Stir Before Serving: After storing, the ingredients may separate, so give the drink a good stir before serving.
4. Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and flavor, mainly due to the condensed milk.

Brazilian Limonada Recipe FAQs

How to make Brazilian lemonade not bitter?

To make Brazilian lemonade without bitterness, follow these tips:

1. Use Fresh, Ripe Limes: Choose limes that are bright green, smooth, and firm but not too hard. Avoid limes with rough or yellowing skins, as they may be more bitter.
2. Don’t Overblend: When blending the limes, blend just long enough to break them down and mix with the water. Overblending can release more bitterness from the peel.
3. Strain the Mixture: After blending, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve to remove any bits of lime peel and pulp, which can contribute to bitterness.
4. Don’t Skip the Condensed Milk: The addition of sweetened condensed milk not only adds creaminess but also helps balance any remaining bitterness, creating a smoother, sweeter drink.

Does Brazilian lemonade go bad?

Yes, Brazilian lemonade can go bad, especially because it contains fresh ingredients like limes and condensed milk. Here’s what you need to know:

-Freshness: Brazilian lemonade is best consumed fresh, as the flavors are most vibrant shortly after it’s made. The acidity of the limes can start to break down, and the flavor may become more bitter over time.
-Storage: If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 24 hours, but the flavor might not be as fresh and the creamy texture can change.
-Signs of Spoilage: If the lemonade develops an off smell, changes in color, or has a sour taste beyond its natural tartness, it’s best to discard it. Also, any separation of the liquid might indicate that it’s beginning to spoil.
For the best experience, try to enjoy Brazilian lemonade as soon as it’s made!

What is Brazilian lemonade made of?

Brazilian lemonade, also known as “limonada suíça,” is made from fresh limes, water, sugar, and sweetened condensed milk. The unique combination of whole limes blended with the ingredients creates a creamy, tangy, and refreshing drink, perfect for hot summer days.

How do you make Brazilian lemonade without it turning bitter?

To make Brazilian lemonade without bitterness, use fresh, ripe limes with thin skins, and avoid over-blending the mixture. Straining the liquid to remove lime peel and pulp also helps prevent bitterness. Adding sweetened condensed milk balances the flavors and reduces any remaining bitterness.

Can you make Brazilian lemonade ahead of time?

While Brazilian lemonade is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, the flavor and texture may slightly change, so it’s recommended to serve it as soon as possible for the best taste.

Is Brazilian lemonade healthy?

Brazilian lemonade is a refreshing and delicious drink, but it’s also high in sugar due to the added sweetened condensed milk. While it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat, those watching their sugar intake might consider reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute.

What is the difference between Brazilian lemonade and regular lemonade?

The main difference between Brazilian lemonade and regular lemonade is the use of limes instead of lemons and the addition of sweetened condensed milk. This gives Brazilian lemonade a creamier texture and a unique sweet-tart flavor that sets it apart from the traditional lemon-based version.

Can you make Brazilian lemonade vegan?

Yes, you can make Brazilian lemonade vegan by substituting the sweetened condensed milk with a plant-based condensed milk alternative, such as coconut condensed milk or almond condensed milk. This will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor while keeping the drink dairy-free.

What are some popular variations of Brazilian lemonade?

Popular variations of Brazilian lemonade include adding mint for a refreshing twist, using sparkling water for a fizzy version, or incorporating other fruits like strawberries or passion fruit for a unique flavor. These variations can add a new dimension to the classic Brazilian lemonade.

showing how to serve Brazilian limeade in a glass with eyes, garnished with lime slices

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Ingredients

5 limes with smooth, thin skin (see Notes)
1 cup granulated sugar
6 cups cold water
1/3 cup sweetened condensed milk

Instructions

Wash the limes thoroughly. Cut off the ends and slice in half—quarter each half to create 1/8ths.
Add half of the water, half of the sugar, and half of the limes to a blender, then pulse 5-7 times to partially break up the limes. Don’t over-pulse, or the drink will be bitter.
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher, then use a spoon to press the lime pulp and extract as much juice/flavor as possible. Discard the skins and pulp. Repeat the process with the remaining water, sugar, and limes.
Add the sweetened condensed milk and whisk vigorously until frothy. If the lemonade is too tart (due to pith/bitter limes), you may need to add extra sugar or milk. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, stir in additional lime juice or zest.
Serve immediately by pouring into glasses with ice. Don’t add ice directly to the pitcher; it will dilute the flavor. The longer the Lemonade sits and the limes break down, the more bitter it will become, so it's best to serve it immediately (or within a couple hours if needed).

Video

Notes

Limes: Fresh, juicy limes provide the essential citrus flavor that defines Brazilian Limeade. Look for bright green limes with thin, smooth skins (usually smaller ones) because they tend to be juicier and have less pith, reducing the risk of bitterness.
Storage: Brazilian Lemonade is best enjoyed fresh because it can become increasingly bitter and separate, so I don’t suggest storing it for more than a few hours. If storing, cover and refrigerate until ready to enjoy. Whisk again before serving and adjust to taste.