Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultra‑simple — Just a few ingredients and minimal prep.
Creamy‑sweet texture — Sweetened condensed milk adds a dessert‑like creaminess without extra sugar.
Versatile and customizable — Add sparkling water, berries, mint, or rum to suit your taste.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Sweetened condensed milk
Cold water
Ice
Optional: extra sugar, lemon slices, berries, mint, sparkling water

directions

Juice fresh lemons into a pitcher (about 1¼ cups or 5–6 lemons).
Whisk in sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
Pour in cold water (4–5 cups) and stir.
Taste and adjust sweetness—add more condensed milk or sugar if needed.
Add ice and optional garnishes. Serve and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Yields: ~6 servings (about 6 cups)
Prep time: 5–10 minutes
Total time: Ready to drink in under 10 minutes

Variations

Use sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy twist.
Blend in strawberries, raspberries, or mango for flavored versions.
Swap lemons for limes to make a creamy Brazilian-style lemonade.
Stir in mint or basil for herbal freshness.
Make it adult-friendly with a shot of rum or vodka, or blend with ice for a frozen cocktail.

storage/reheating

Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Stir well before serving; add ice as trays may dilute.
This drink is best chilled or over ice—not heated.

FAQs

How do I prevent curdling when mixing lemon with milk?

Use sweetened condensed milk and whisk gently—this creamy lemonade stays smooth without curdling.

Can I use lime instead of lemon?

Yes! It becomes a creamy take on Brazilian “limonada suíça.”

Is extra sugar necessary?

Not usually—the sweetness from condensed milk is often enough. Add sugar only if you prefer it sweeter.

Can I prepare it in advance?

Yes—mix ahead and store chilled for up to 3–4 days, then stir and add ice to serve.

How do I make it fizzy?

Replace part of the water with chilled sparkling water just before serving.

Can I make a frozen version?

Blend lemonade with ice or frozen fruit and add rum if desired for a frozen cocktail.

Any tips to reduce bitterness?

Strain seeds and pulp, and taste before adding sugar or milk to balance.

What can I garnish it with?

Try lemon or lime slices, berries, mint, basil, or even a splash of rum on top.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just scale ingredients and use a larger pitcher or blender.

How many calories per glass?

Roughly 116 kcal per serving in basic version (lemon, milk, water, ice).

Conclusion

This Condensed Milk Lemonade is a delightfully creamy and refreshing twist on traditional lemonade—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for summer gatherings. Whether you enjoy it classic, fizzy, fruity, or spiked, it’s sure to impress your guests. Stay cool and sip on!