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This ice cold Brazilian lemonade with coconut cools you from the inside out and the creamy citrusy flavors always brighten up hot afternoons at our house My family cannot get enough of this sweet tangy and coconut kissed drink and it is my go to refresher for summer get togethers
Ingredients
- Cold water: Brings everything together and keeps the drink crisp and hydrating Use filtered water if possible for the cleanest taste
- Sugar: Adds sweetness and balances the tartness Choose fine granulated sugar so it dissolves completely
- Limes: Provide the signature citrus zing and perfume Look for limes with smooth skin and a little give when squeezed for juicier fruit
- Sweetened condensed milk: Creates the classic creamy body and softens any sharpness from the limes Use a trusted brand for best flavor
- Coconut extract: Boosts the tropical flavor even more Pick pure coconut extract if you can rather than imitation
- Ice: Optional but makes the drink chillier and extra refreshing Use clean tasting ice made from filtered water
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add the Liquids:
- Pour three cups of cold water into your blender This forms the foundation for your lemonade Stir in sugar and coconut extract The sugar needs a moment to begin dissolving
- Sweeten and Cream:
- Spoon sweetened condensed milk into the blender Be sure to scrape the spoon so you get every bit of that sweet richness
- Prepare the Limes:
- Thoroughly wash limes with soap and water because you are using the whole fruit including the peels Rinse off any soap Open up the flavors by cutting the ends off each lime and chopping them into about eighteen pieces per lime The small pieces help your blender work better and extract more flavor
- Blend It All Up:
- Drop the cut limes into the blender with the liquids and blend for only twenty seconds It should get foamy and fragrant Avoid overblending which can add bitterness from the skins
- Strain and Serve:
- Hold a fine mesh strainer over your pitcher or a large bowl carefully Pour the blended mixture through using a spoon to press out as much liquid as you can while leaving the pulp behind
- Taste and Adjust:
- Pour the strained lemonade into glasses If it feels too bitter for your taste add an extra splash of sweetened condensed milk Some limes pack more of a punch than others
- Add Ice and Enjoy:
- Plop in some ice cubes if you like it frosty Serve right away because the flavors are brightest fresh
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Storage Tips
Brazilian lemonade with coconut is best enjoyed immediately but if you have leftovers stash them in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one day The citrus will get more pronounced as it sits so give it a quick taste before serving and add a touch more sweetened condensed milk if needed Be sure to strain the drink well before storing to avoid bitterness from the lime peels sitting in the liquid
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find coconut extract try using a few tablespoons of coconut milk or coconut cream for a subtle tropical flavor You can also swap the sweetened condensed milk for dairy free coconut condensed milk to make this vegan If limes are unavailable lemons will work but the flavor is slightly different
Serving Suggestions
Serve Brazilian lemonade with coconut in tall glasses filled with crushed ice and a sprig of fresh mint for extra freshness It is the perfect mocktail for brunch barbecues or pool parties Sometimes I freeze it in popsicle molds for a fun summer treat the kids gobble up
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Cultural Context
Despite its name Brazilian lemonade is actually made with limes not lemons and it is called limonada suíça in Brazil The trick of blending whole limes including the rind gives this drink its famously bright flavor and scattering coconut into the mix gives it a hint of the tropical beaches of Brazil
Recipe FAQs
- → Why blend limes with the peel?
The peel infuses the drink with aromatic oils, giving a bright and intense citrus flavor.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
Add more sweetened condensed milk or sugar for a sweeter profile, or reduce if you prefer it tangier.
- → Is coconut extract necessary?
The coconut extract is optional but adds a richer, tropical flavor. Leave it out for a classic taste.
- → Can this beverage be made ahead?
It's best enjoyed fresh, as the lime rind may create bitterness if stored for long periods.
- → How do I avoid bitterness in the drink?
Blend limes briefly and strain well. Taste before serving, adding extra condensed milk if needed.
- → What kind of limes work best?
Fresh, thin-skinned limes provide the brightest flavor and are easiest to blend without added bitterness.