Intro
Hi, I am Dulcia. This Brazilian Lemonade, sometimes called Brazilian Limeade or limonada suíça, is one of my favorite quick refreshments. It is bright, slightly creamy, and perfect for hot afternoons.
Origins
Brazilian Lemonade originated in Brazil where whole limes are blended to capture the aromatic oils from the peel as well as the juice. If you want background on limeades, see the Wikipedia page on limeade: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Limeade. For basic nutrition details about limes and other ingredients, the USDA Food Data Central is a helpful reference: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cold water
- 5 limes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
I list the ingredients exactly as I use them. You can scale the recipe if you need more servings.
Instructions
- Into a blender, add the cold water, lime wedges, and granulated sugar. Blend until smooth and the lime wedges are blended.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the blender contents into the strainer, making sure to catch the liquid below in the bowl. Discard the lime pulp and pieces that are left in the strainer.
- Rinse out the blender. Pour the strained lime juice mixture from the bowl back into the blender. Add the sweetened condensed milk.
- Blend again until smooth and it is frothy.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the Brazilian lemonade over top. Garnish with slices of fresh lime.
Brazilian Limeade
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Sweet, frothy Brazilian limeade (limonada suíça) made with whole limes and sweetened condensed milk.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cold water
- 5 limes, cut into wedges
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- Ice, for serving
- Lime slices, for garnish
Instructions
- Into a blender, add the cold water, lime wedges, and granulated sugar and blend until smooth and the lime wedges are blended.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the blender contents into the strainer, catching the liquid in the bowl and discarding the lime pulp and pieces left in the strainer.
- Rinse out the blender and pour the strained lime juice mixture back into the blender, then add the sweetened condensed milk.
- Blend again until smooth and frothy.
- Fill glasses with ice, pour the Brazilian limeade over the ice, and garnish with lime slices before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
Tips
- Use ripe, thin-skinned limes for the best flavor and easy blending. Roll limes on the counter before cutting to release more juice.
- Do not over-blend the lime rinds. A quick pulse yields bright oils without overly bitter notes.
- If you prefer it less sweet, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or more, or use less condensed milk.
Variations
- Coconut twist: Replace 1/4 cup of the water with light coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
- Sparkling version: Substitute 2 cups of the water with soda water and add it after blending so the drink stays fizzy.
- Adult version: Add a splash of cachaça for a Brazilian-inspired cocktail.
FAQ
Q: Can I use lemons instead of limes?
A: Yes. The method is the same, but the flavor will be different. Use thin-skinned, juicy lemons for the best result.
Q: How long will this keep in the fridge?
A: Fresh is best. Keep it covered for up to 24 hours. Separation may occur, so gently stir before serving.
Q: Can I make this sugar-free?
A: Use a sugar substitute compatible with cooking and adjust to taste. The condensed milk contributes sweetness and texture, so substitute with a sugar-free condensed milk if you can find one.
Conclusion
This Brazilian Lemonade is fast to make and always feels a bit special thanks to the creamy condensed milk and frothy finish. I hope you try it this week. For more recipes and ideas, visit my site: https://www.dulciarecipes.com/.