Why You’ll Love Condensed Milk Lemonade Recipe
This recipe transforms classic lemonade into something special by adding sweetened condensed milk for a velvety texture and balanced sweetness. It’s bright and tangy yet luxuriously smooth — perfect for hot days, brunches, backyard gatherings, or any time you want a refreshing treat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 medium lemons, scrubbed and quartered (with peel)
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
4 cups cold water
Ice, for serving
Optional add‑ins:
1–2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to adjust sweetness)
Pinch of sea salt (to enhance citrus flavor)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
Directions
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Wash lemons thoroughly and cut them into quarters.
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In a high‑speed blender, combine half of the lemons with 2 cups of cold water. Blend briefly (about 15–20 seconds) to extract flavor without pulverizing peels.
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Strain the blended mixture through a fine‑mesh sieve into a pitcher. Repeat with the remaining lemons and water.
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Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until fully combined. Adjust sweetness with sugar, or add a pinch of salt if desired.
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Serve over ice and garnish with mint or lemon slices.
Servings and timing
Serves 4–5.
Prep time: about 5 minutes.
Blending and straining time: about 5 minutes.
Total time: about 10 minutes.
Variations
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Limeade Version: Use limes instead of lemons for a Brazilian-inspired twist with a slightly sharper flavor.
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular condensed milk with sweetened condensed coconut milk or oat-based alternatives.
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Frozen Lemonade: Blend with ice to create a slushy, smoothie-style drink.
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Spiked Lemonade: Add a splash of vodka or white rum for an adult-friendly cocktail.
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Herbal Infusion: Add a few sprigs of basil or rosemary for a more aromatic, sophisticated flavor.
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Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemons, limes, and oranges for a more complex citrus taste.
Storage/Reheating
This drink is best served fresh. If you need to store it, cover and refrigerate (without ice) for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving as some separation may occur. Avoid storing with ice to keep from diluting the flavor.
FAQs
What makes this lemonade different from regular lemonade?
This version uses sweetened condensed milk, giving it a creamy texture and richer sweetness compared with traditional lemon‑and‑sugar lemonade.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of whole lemons?
For best flavor, whole lemons with peel are recommended, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
Is this recipe kid‑friendly?
Yes. It’s non‑alcoholic and naturally sweet, making it suitable for kids and adults alike.
Can I make this dairy‑free?
Yes — substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk or another plant‑based condensed milk alternative.
Is sugar necessary in the recipe?
The drink gets sweetness from the condensed milk, so additional sugar is optional and depends on your taste and how tart your lemons are.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare it a few hours ahead and refrigerate, but it’s most refreshing when served soon after making.
What can I garnish the lemonade with?
Fresh mint leaves, lemon wedges, or thin lemon slices make great garnishes.
Can I make this with limes instead of lemons?
Yes — swapping in lime will give a similar creamy citrus drink with a slightly different flavor.
How cold should this be served?
Serve chilled with plenty of ice for the best refreshing experience.
Can I make this into a cocktail?
You can add a splash of vodka or white rum for an adult version, but it’s delightful as a non‑alcoholic beverage too.
Conclusion
Condensed Milk Lemonade puts a fun, creamy twist on traditional lemonade with its sweet‑tart balance and unique texture. With just a few simple ingredients and minutes to prepare, it’s a refreshing, crowd‑pleasing drink perfect for warm weather or any time you want to elevate your lemonade game.
