Condensed Milk Lemonade is one of the most refreshing and creamy drinks I love to make when the weather heats up. It’s sweet, tangy, and silky smooth—all the things I want in a summer drink. Inspired by Brazilian lemonade (which actually uses limes), this version features fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk blended into a drink that’s both bright and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how fast and easy this lemonade comes together. It uses just a few simple ingredients, but the result is far from ordinary. The condensed milk balances the tartness of the lemons perfectly, giving me a creamy citrus drink that feels like a cross between lemonade and a milkshake. It’s a great twist on a classic, and everyone who tries it always asks for more.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Fresh lemon juice
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Sweetened condensed milk
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Cold water
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Ice cubes
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Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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I start by juicing fresh lemons until I have enough for the recipe. I usually strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp for a smoother drink.
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In a blender, I combine the lemon juice, cold water, sweetened condensed milk, and a handful of ice cubes.
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I blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and frothy. I taste and adjust the sweetness if needed—sometimes adding a bit more condensed milk or water to get the right balance.
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I pour the lemonade into glasses over ice and garnish with lemon slices if I want to make it look extra special.
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I serve it immediately while it’s cold and fresh.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes less than 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish, which is why I love whipping it up on a hot afternoon or when I have last-minute guests.
Variations
Sometimes I blend in a handful of fresh mint for a cool twist, or I add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy version. When I want to turn it into a cocktail, I mix in a shot of vodka or rum. I’ve even tried it with limes instead of lemons for a slightly different citrus profile—it’s just as good.
Storage/Reheating
I like to enjoy this drink right after making it, but if I have leftovers, I store them in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. I give it a good shake or stir before serving again. Since it contains dairy, I don’t leave it out for long. There’s no reheating—just chill and sip.
FAQs
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
I usually make it fresh for the best flavor and texture, but I’ve made it a few hours ahead and kept it chilled in the fridge. Just give it a stir before serving.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice gives the best taste, but in a pinch, I’ve used bottled. I just make sure it’s 100% lemon juice with no added sugar or preservatives.
Is this drink really sweet?
It’s sweet and creamy, but I control the sweetness by adjusting the amount of condensed milk. If I want it less sweet, I add more water or lemon juice.
Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, I’ve tried this with limes, oranges, and even grapefruit. Each gives a unique flavor, but lemons remain my favorite for this recipe.
What kind of blender works best?
Any standard blender will work. I just make sure it can crush ice so the drink comes out smooth and cold.
Conclusion
Condensed Milk Lemonade is a summer favorite I never get tired of. It’s cool, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor—like sunshine in a glass. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels indulgent yet refreshing. Once I start making it, it quickly becomes a seasonal tradition I look forward to all year.
Print
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Condensed Milk Lemonade is a creamy, tangy, and refreshing twist on classic lemonade. Made with fresh lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, and ice, it blends into a smooth, frothy drink perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
3 cups cold water
1–2 cups ice cubes
Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Juice fresh lemons until you have about 1/2 cup of juice. Strain to remove seeds and pulp if desired.
- In a blender, combine lemon juice, sweetened condensed milk, cold water, and ice cubes.
- Blend until smooth, creamy, and frothy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more condensed milk or water if needed.
- Pour into glasses over ice and garnish with lemon slices. Serve immediately.
Notes
Blend in fresh mint leaves for a cooling twist.
Add sparkling water for a fizzy variation.
Mix in a shot of vodka or rum for an adult cocktail version.
Try swapping lemons with limes for a Brazilian-inspired limeade.
Best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours—shake well before serving again.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Brazilian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg