Condensed Milk Lemonade Recipe

If you love both bold citrus and lusciously creamy drinks, Condensed Milk Lemonade is going to be your new obsession. This enchanting twist on classic lemonade blends sweetened condensed milk with fresh lemon juice for a refreshing, tangy, and satisfyingly smooth beverage that’s as popular at summer parties as it is curled up with a good book. It’s cool, vibrant, a little nostalgic, and totally unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Condensed Milk Lemonade is all about a handful of simple, quality ingredients coming together to create something spectacular. Each item plays a vital role—the lemons bring the zing, the condensed milk adds creamy sweetness, and the water ties everything together for perfect sipping. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• Fresh Lemon Juice: Bursting with vibrant acidity, fresh lemon juice keeps the drink bright and undeniably refreshing. Use about 4-6 lemons for maximum flavor.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is the secret to the drink’s creamy texture and luxurious sweetness. It perfectly balances the tartness of the lemons.
• Cold Water: Water is essential for diluting the mixture just right so each sip is cool and thirst-quenching.
• Simple Syrup (Optional): For those who have a serious sweet tooth, a splash of simple syrup allows you to adjust your Condensed Milk Lemonade to your perfect level of sweetness.
• Ice Cubes: The chill factor! Ice ensures every glass is frosty and extra-refreshing, especially on the hottest days.
• Lemon Slices for Garnish: Not only do they look beautiful, but they intensify the citrus aroma with every sip.
• Fresh Mint Leaves for Garnish: Mint brings a breezy herbal note that elevates and freshens up the whole drink.

How to Make Condensed Milk Lemonade

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

Start by rolling your lemons on the counter with gentle pressure. This handy trick helps break down the membranes inside, yielding more juice. Cut the lemons in half and use a juicer (manual or electric!) to squeeze out every last drop. You’re aiming for a full cup of fresh lemon juice for that punchy citrus backbone Condensed Milk Lemonade is known for.

Step 2: Mix the Base

Pour your freshly-squeezed lemon juice into a large pitcher. Add the sweetened condensed milk and give it a good stir. Don’t be shy—make sure there are no lumps! The blend will look cloudy and pale, and you’ll notice the fragrance immediately. This step ensures a smooth, creamy base without any streaks from the condensed milk.

Step 3: Add Water

Gradually pour in two cups of cold water while stirring gently. This will thin out the mixture and bring it to a drinkable consistency. Give it a taste; if you’re craving a bit more sweetness, add up to 1/4 cup of simple syrup. Mix thoroughly until everything is silky and homogeneous.

Step 4: Chill

Refrigerate the pitcher of lemonade for about 30 minutes. This lets the flavors meld and ensures a perfectly cold, revitalizing drink. If you’re too excited to wait (we get it!), feel free to serve it immediately over a tall glass packed with ice cubes.

Step 5: Serve

When you’re ready, fill each glass with ice and pour the chilled Condensed Milk Lemonade over the top. Take a moment to garnish with lemon slices and a couple of mint leaves. Stir with a straw to bring everything together—and enjoy the dreamy fusion of creamy and tart!

How to Serve Condensed Milk Lemonade

Garnishes

Garnishing is where the fun begins! Add a pretty slice of lemon to the rim and a sprig of fresh mint to every glass. These little touches introduce extra aroma and color, making Condensed Milk Lemonade even more tempting—plus, who can resist a drink that looks like it came straight from a café?

Side Dishes

Pair your Condensed Milk Lemonade with crisp summer salads, picnic sandwiches, or buttery shortbread cookies. Its creamy tang is absolutely dreamy alongside savory snacks or delicate sweets, balancing richness with a blast of citrus.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to get a bit playful, serve this lemonade in mason jars for charming vintage vibes, or pour it into dainty glasses with colorful paper straws for a party. For an elevated touch, freeze extra lemon slices and mint in your ice cubes to make each glass gorgeous from the inside out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Condensed Milk Lemonade in an airtight pitcher or jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, though the flavors are at their brightest within the first 24 hours.

Freezing

Believe it or not, you can freeze Condensed Milk Lemonade! Pour it into ice cube trays, and once frozen, pop the cubes into freezer bags. Drop a few into sparkling water for a fizzy treat or blend them for a quick frozen lemonade slush.

Reheating

This lemonade is designed to be enjoyed ice cold, so there’s no need to reheat. If your batch has separated a little in the fridge, simply stir or shake it well before serving—no warmth required!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While you can use bottled juice in a pinch, nothing beats the zingy, vibrant taste of freshly-squeezed lemons in Condensed Milk Lemonade. The fresh juice ensures your drink pops with natural flavor and aroma.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for condensed milk?

Absolutely! Look for a vegan sweetened condensed milk made from coconut or oat milk. The texture will stay creamy, and you’ll enjoy a subtle hint of coconut if that’s your vibe.

Can I make this lemonade ahead for parties?

Yes, Condensed Milk Lemonade is a host’s dream! Mix it up in advance and chill in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before pouring into glasses when your guests arrive.

What if my lemonade tastes too tart?

Don’t worry—just add a little more simple syrup or even a tablespoon or two of extra condensed milk. Stir well and taste after each addition until you hit the perfect sweetness.

Can I add alcohol to this recipe?

For a grown-up twist, try mixing in a splash of vodka or white rum. The creamy, citrusy base of Condensed Milk Lemonade pairs beautifully with light spirits for an easy, crowd-pleasing cocktail.

Final Thoughts

Every glass of Condensed Milk Lemonade is a little celebration of sunshine and nostalgia, with a creamy twist that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re pouring it for friends or savoring a quiet moment, this recipe is pure delight—so give it a try and experience your own sip of happiness!

Print