Introduction

Condensed milk lemonade is a creamy and refreshing twist on the classic citrus drink. Combining tart lemon juice with sweetened condensed milk creates a smooth, tangy beverage perfect for warm days. It’s simple to make and sure to impress your guests.

Three tall clear glasses hold a swirled drink with two main layers; one is creamy white and the other is bright yellow, mixed together in a flowing, marbled pattern throughout each glass. Each glass is topped with a small mound of white foam, garnished with a fresh green mint leaf placed in the center and a bright yellow lemon wedge on the rim. Surrounding the glasses are whole and halved lemons with a vibrant yellow color, some fresh mint sprigs, and a few clear ice cubes scattered around on a white marbled texture surface. The scene is closely framed, highlighting the fresh and creamy look of the drinks. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 cups cold water
1/4 cup simple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
Ice cubes, to taste
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the lemons by rolling them on a countertop to maximize juice extraction. Cut them in half and juice them until you have 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
Step 2: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and sweetened condensed milk. Stir well to mix them together, ensuring there are no lumps from the condensed milk.
Step 3: Gradually add the cold water to the pitcher of lemon mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. Taste the lemonade and add simple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
Step 4: Refrigerate the lemonade for about 30 minutes to chill, or serve immediately over ice cubes for a refreshing drink.
Step 5: Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, pour the chilled lemonade over the ice, and garnish each glass with a lemon slice and fresh mint leaves.
Step 6: Stir the drink with a straw if desired, then enjoy the creamy, tart flavor of your condensed milk lemonade.

Tips & Variations

For a fizzy version, replace cold water with sparkling water just before serving.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup depending on your taste.
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different citrus flavor.
Chill lemon juice and condensed milk before mixing to reduce the need for additional ice.

Storage

Store leftover lemonade in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again. This drink is best enjoyed fresh; if it separates slightly, a good stir will restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing as it may affect the consistency.

How to Serve

Three tall clear glasses are filled with a creamy white drink swirled with bright yellow layers, creating a marbled pattern inside. Each glass is topped with white foam and some small ice cubes visible near the top. A fresh green mint sprig and a thin lemon slice are placed on the rim of each glass. Around the glasses, there are several whole and halved bright yellow lemons, along with some loose mint leaves and a few clear ice cubes set on a white marbled surface, adding freshness to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and brightness, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it is 100% lemon juice without added preservatives.

Is sweetened condensed milk necessary?

Sweetened condensed milk gives this lemonade its creamy texture and sweetness. You can’t substitute it with regular milk or cream without changing the flavor and consistency significantly.