Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Condensed Milk Lemonade offers a delightful twist on the classic lemonade, combining the tangy freshness of lemon with the creamy sweetness of sweetened condensed milk. This easy-to-make beverage is perfect for hot summer days, offering a refreshing and indulgent treat. Its smooth texture and balanced flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or a relaxing afternoon sip.

Creamy Condensed Milk Lemonade for Summer

Ingredients

1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

Extract Lemon Juice: Roll the lemons on the counter to loosen the juice. Cut each lemon in half and juice them until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
Mix Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and the condensed milk is fully incorporated.
Add Water: Slowly add the cold water to the mixture, stirring continuously to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the lemonade. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add up to 1/4 cup of simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: Optional, but refrigerating for 30 minutes enhances the flavor
Total Time: 10–40 minutes

Variations

Fruit Infusions: Add pureed fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or mangoes to the lemonade for a fruity twist.
Herbal Touch: Incorporate fresh mint or basil leaves for an aromatic flavor.
Sparkling Version: Substitute cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy lemonade.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy variation.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This beverage is best served cold and is not suitable for reheating.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While bottled lemon juice can be used, fresh lemon juice provides a brighter and more authentic flavor.

Is it necessary to add sweetened condensed milk?

Sweetened condensed milk gives the lemonade its creamy texture and sweetness. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute it with regular milk and adjust the sweetness with sugar.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the lemonade in advance and refrigerate it. Just give it a good stir before serving as ingredients may settle.

How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?

You can reduce or omit the honey or maple syrup, and consider using a sugar substitute to lower the sugar content.

Can I add alcohol to this lemonade?

Yes, a splash of vodka or rum can be added for an adult version of this refreshing drink.

How do I prevent the lemonade from becoming too sweet?

Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your taste preference. You can also balance the sweetness by adding more lemon juice.

Can I use sparkling water instead of regular water?

Yes, using sparkling water will give the lemonade a fizzy texture, making it more refreshing.

How can I make this lemonade spicier?

Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the lemonade for a spicy kick.

How do I know when the lemonade is perfectly balanced?

Taste and adjust by adding more lemon juice for tartness or sweetened condensed milk for sweetness, based on your personal preference.

Conclusion

Condensed Milk Lemonade is a delightful and easy-to-make beverage that combines the tanginess of fresh lemons with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk. Its versatility allows for various flavor enhancements, making it suitable for different occasions. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing summer drink or a special treat, this lemonade is sure to please your taste buds.