Brazilian Lemonade Recipe : Creamy & Citrusy

If you’ve never tried Brazilian lemonade, get ready for your new favorite warm-weather refreshment. This sweet, creamy, and slightly tart drink is not your typical lemonade. Made with fresh limes and sweetened condensed milk, it’s a delightful twist on tradition—refreshing enough for poolside lounging, yet indulgent enough to serve at a summer brunch.

Despite the name, this drink doesn’t actually use lemons. In Brazil, the word “limonada” can refer to beverages made with limes, and this creamy blend is affectionately known as “limonada suíça” or Swiss lemonade. It’s bright, bold, and irresistibly smooth.

Whether you’re looking to cool down with something new or want to wow guests at your next backyard gathering, this Brazilian lemonade recipe is as simple as it is delicious.

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Why You’ll Love Brazilian Lemonade

Uses whole limes for intense citrus flavor
Blended with sweetened condensed milk for a creamy texture
Ready in just 10 minutes
Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt for vegan diets
Perfect balance of tart, sweet, and silky

Ingredients (Serves 4)

4 fresh limes (thin-skinned preferred)
4 cups cold water
½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
Ice for serving

Optional Garnishes

Lime slices
Mint sprigs
Sweetened condensed milk drizzle on top

Instructions

1. Prep the Limes
Wash the limes thoroughly and cut off both ends. Quarter them, keeping the peel on. Remove seeds if visible.

2. Blend in Batches
Add half the limes, 2 cups of water, and half the sugar to a blender. Pulse 3–4 times—do not overblend or the rind will make the drink bitter. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. Repeat with the remaining limes, water, and sugar.

3. Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully mixed. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.

4. Serve Over Ice
Pour over ice-filled glasses. Garnish with lime slices or mint. Enjoy immediately for the best flavor.

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Tips for Success

Use limes with thin, smooth skins—they’re less bitter
Don’t overblend; short pulses preserve a clean, crisp taste
Make just before serving—after 30 minutes, the peels can turn the drink bitter
For a frothier texture, blend all ingredients together with crushed ice and skip straining

Variations to Try

Coconut Brazilian Lemonade
Replace 1 cup of water with coconut milk for a tropical twist

Sparkling Limonada
Use sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy kick

Frozen Brazilian Limeade
Blend with 1–2 cups of ice for a slushy, smoothie-like drink

Vegan Version
Use sweetened condensed coconut milk or oat milk condensed milk for a dairy-free option

Pairing Ideas

This lemonade goes beautifully with Brazilian and summer fare:

Grilled chicken skewers
Churrasco (Brazilian BBQ)
Coxinhas (Brazilian chicken croquettes)
Fruit salad with mango, pineapple, and papaya

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Fresh is best—consume within 30 minutes for optimal taste
If prepping ahead, blend everything except the limes, and stir them in right before serving
You can make the base and chill, then blend in batches with ice right before serving for events

Nutrition (Approx. per serving)

Calories: 210
Fat: 3g
Carbs: 45g
Sugar: 40g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 30mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh limes?
Not recommended—this recipe relies on whole limes (peel included) for its signature flavor.

Why is it called Swiss lemonade if it’s from Brazil?
The term “suíça” (Swiss) adds a playful, exotic twist. It likely refers to the creamy texture created by condensed milk, which was once a luxury.

Can I make this without a blender?
No. The blender is essential to extract the oils and juice from the lime peel, which gives this drink its distinctive punch.

Can I use lemons instead of limes?
Technically yes, but you’ll get a completely different flavor. The tartness and bitterness of lime peels are key to the authentic Brazilian taste.

Is Brazilian lemonade served in Brazil?
Absolutely! It’s especially popular in homes and local juice bars, often sold fresh during Brazil’s long hot seasons.

Cultural Origins: What is “Limonada Suíça”?

Despite the name, “limonada suíça” (Swiss lemonade) is a Brazilian invention. Its origins trace back to the 20th century when sweetened condensed milk became widely available across Latin America. In Brazil, it’s a creative and delicious example of how traditional ingredients are blended with global influences to create something uniquely refreshing.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

Caipirinha – Brazil’s National Cocktail
Coconut Lime Agua Fresca
Sweetened Condensed Milk Iced Coffee
Classic Limeade with Mint

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