Sweet and smooth, the Brazilian Lemonade is the perfect summer treat for the whole family.
As much as his parents, grandparents, other uncle and I attempt to explain to my oldest nephew that drinking alcohol isn’t good for you—all while we imbibe ourselves—he, of course, can’t help but ask questions. And make his own mocktails. He drank most of the ginger beer we had this past weekend, squeezing some lime juice into it and calling it a “Stormy Without the Dark”. He’s less interested in the liquor, and more keen on doing what the big kids are doing… Having interesting concoctions with cheeky names.
So when I told him that we’ll be trying out a recipe from my job, this one called the Brazilian lemonade, he was more than just excited.
Sure, lemonade is great on its own, either purchased at the store or squeezed and made fresh at home, but today’s mixture is extra refreshing, delicious and different. Brazilian lemonade, also known as Swiss Lemonade and limonada suíça is much different than what most folks are familiar with when the word “lemonade” is brought up. For a start, this drink is made with limes instead of lemons, adding a more tart edge to the flavor, and is sweetened not just with sugar, but condensed milk as well.
Smooth, citrusy and refreshing, you’ll find yourself making pitcher after pitcher of this mouthwatering beverage every summer after just one sip.
What is the best alcohol to use in a Brazilian lemonade?
Okay, here’s the thing… The recipe here doesn’t call for any alcohol to be added, thus making this mixture a family-friendly treat. However, when the kids are all off playing video games or splashing around in the pool—supervised by an adult, of course—the rest of us can sneak off and add a little silver rum or vodka to our Brazilian lemonade for an extra bite. Or if you want to make a more authentic boozy beverage, make this mixture with some cachaça, a Brazilian spirit distilled from fresh sugarcane juice.
Ingredients
- 4 limes washed with ends trimmed and cut into wedges
- 6 cups cold water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Place half of the lime wedges in a blender with 3 cups of water and 1/2 cup of sugar. Pulse about 5 times until the mixture is mostly smooth. Do not over-blend.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher. Use a spoon to press out as much juice as possible, then discard the pulp.
- Repeat the blending process with the remaining limes, water, and sugar. After straining the juice, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and mix well. Serve over ice.
Nutrition
What glassware and garnish are used?
Find a glass pitcher large enough to hold your finished lemonade. Serve in rocks glasses over ice with a few straws and a fresh lime wheel on the rim for garnish.
What else can be used besides condensed milk?
For a more tropical-leaning taste, use coconut milk in place of the condensed.
Other drinks similar to Brazilian lemonade
In search of more citrus-flavored sippers that can be enjoyed while lounging by the pool, or by the firepit at night, as the kids are making s’mores? Before you continue, check out the recipes below for a little inspiration. And be sure to explore the site for even more ideas.
- Cucumber Lemonade – This fresh and crisp-tasting mixture is another family-friendly option.
- Lemonade Cocktail – Here’s a fizzy vodka libation for all the aunts and uncles at the house.
- Lynchburg Lemonade – A classic cocktail, featuring the spiced sweetness of Jack Daniel’s whiskey.
- Tequila Limeade – Icy cold and with a spicy kick, perfect on a sunny afternoon.
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