The Best drink I’ve ever had
The Best drink I’ve ever had is a easy Brazilian recipe that serves 4. 400 calories per serving. Recipe by Jordan Howlett on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 25 min
Cost: $3.55 total, $0.89 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 pcs Lime (fresh, washed)
- 0.33 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
- 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk (whole 14‑oz can)
- 4 cup Water (cold)
- 4 cup Ice (crushed or cubed)
Instructions
Wash the limes
Rinse the four limes under cold running water, scrubbing gently to remove any wax or residue.
Time: PT2M
Quarter the limes
Place each lime on the cutting board, cut it in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters so you have eight pieces per lime.
Time: PT3M
Add ingredients to the blender
Into the blender, add the lime quarters, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, the whole 14‑oz can of sweetened condensed milk, 4 cups cold water, and 4 cups ice.
Time: PT2M
Blend until smooth
Secure the lid and blend on high speed for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture is uniformly blended and the ice is crushed.
Time: PT1M
Strain the limeade
Place the fine mesh strainer over a pitcher or large jug and pour the blended mixture through, using a spoon to press out as much liquid as possible.
Time: PT3M
Serve
Pour the strained limeade into glasses filled with fresh ice and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 400
- Protein
- 6g
- Carbohydrates
- 70g
- Fat
- 5g
- Fiber
- 0g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free
Allergens: Dairy
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Lime: Key limes (slightly more tart), Lemon (different flavor profile)
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Agave syrup
- Instead of Sweetened Condensed Milk: Evaporated milk + sugar, Coconut condensed milk (dairy‑free)
- Instead of Water: Sparkling water for a fizzy version
- Instead of Ice: Frozen lime juice cubes
Equipment Needed
- Blender
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Measuring Cups
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Pitcher or Large Jug
- Glasses (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cutting the limes into quarters without crushing the flesh.
- Blending with ice to achieve a smooth, slushy texture.
- Straining the mixture thoroughly to remove pulp and seeds.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For an extra burst of aroma, zest one lime and add the zest to the blender before blending.
- If you prefer a fizzy version, replace half of the water with sparkling water after straining.
Troubleshooting
The limeade is too thick or icy.
Add a little more cold water and blend again, or let it sit for a minute to melt slightly before straining.
The drink is too bitter from the lime peel.
Reduce the amount of lime peel by cutting the limes into larger wedges or remove the white pith before blending.
Pulp and seeds pass through the strainer.
Use a finer mesh strainer or line it with cheesecloth for an extra clear beverage.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store the strained limeade in a sealed container for up to 2 days. Add fresh ice before serving.
Freezer: Not recommended; the texture will become icy.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 1 hour due to dairy content.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Blend all ingredients except ice and store the mixture in the refrigerator; add ice and strain just before serving.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar when making the base ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) in Brazilian cuisine?
Limonada Suíça, or Brazilian limeade, originated in the 1970s as a street‑drink that blended whole lime wedges, condensed milk, and ice. It quickly became a popular summer refresher across Brazil because the blended lime peel releases intense citrus oils, making it more aromatic than traditional lemonade.
What are the traditional regional variations of Brazilian Limeade in Brazil?
In the Southeast, the classic version uses sweetened condensed milk, while in the Northeast some vendors add a splash of coconut water or replace condensed milk with evaporated milk for a lighter taste. Some coastal areas also sprinkle a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
How is Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) traditionally served in Brazil?
It is typically served over a generous amount of crushed ice in a tall glass, often with a thin lime wheel or a sprig of mint as garnish. Street vendors pour the strained drink directly over the ice to keep it chilled throughout the day.
During which occasions or celebrations is Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) traditionally enjoyed in Brazil?
Limonada Suíça is a staple at summer festivals, beach outings, and family barbecues (churrascos). Its refreshing qualities make it a favorite during hot weather celebrations such as Carnaval and Festa Junina.
What other Brazilian dishes pair well with Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça)?
The bright, sweet‑tart flavor complements fried snacks like pastel, coxinha, and pão de queijo, as well as grilled meats such as picanha. Its acidity also balances richer dishes like feijoada.
What makes Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) special or unique in Brazilian cuisine?
The key uniqueness lies in blending the lime peel, which releases essential oils that give the drink a vibrant citrus punch. Combined with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, it creates a texture and flavor profile unlike any other Brazilian beverage.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) at home?
Common errors include over‑blending, which can turn the drink too watery, and neglecting to strain, resulting in a gritty texture. Also, using too much lime peel can make the beverage bitter, so follow the quarter‑cut method carefully.
Why does this Brazilian Limeade recipe blend the lime peel instead of just using juice?
Blending the peel extracts the aromatic citrus oils that are not present in the juice alone, giving the limeade a deeper, more refreshing flavor that sets it apart from standard lemonade.
Can I make Brazilian Limeade (Limonada Suíça) ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, blend all ingredients except ice, store the base in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and add fresh ice and strain just before serving to retain the best texture.
What does the YouTube channel Jordan Howlett specialize in?
The YouTube channel Jordan Howlett focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that often explore international street foods and refreshing drinks, emphasizing clear step‑by‑step visuals for beginner cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Jordan Howlett's approach to Brazilian cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Jordan Howlett highlights the simplicity of authentic Brazilian flavors, often using minimal equipment and everyday pantry items, whereas many other channels may rely on more elaborate techniques or hard‑to‑find ingredients.
Last updated: August 26, 2026
