I still remember the first time I tasted authentic Brazilian Lemonade during a summer visit to São Paulo. The unexpected creaminess combined with the bright citrus flavor created a sensation I’d never experienced before. That first sip of Brazilian Lemonade changed my perception of what a refreshing drink could be.
Over my decade-long journey exploring Brazilian Lemonade recipes, I’ve discovered the true magic behind this paradoxical beverage. In this article, I’ll share how to create the perfect traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe that captures the essence of this beloved South American drink. I invite you to join me on this flavorful adventure.
Brazilian Lemonade is a beverage that will make you question everything you thought you knew about lemonade. It’s perfect for those who love citrus drinks or want to experience something extraordinary with limes and condensed milk. Let’s explore what makes authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink so special.
Key Takeaways
- Learn the secrets to making smooth and creamy Brazilian Lemonade with the perfect balance of sweet and tart
- Discover the importance of using the right limes and proper blending techniques
- Understand the role of condensed milk in creating the signature creamy texture and flavor
- Get tips and tricks for preparing, serving, and storing your homemade Brazilian Lemonade
- Find out how to adjust sweetness and creaminess to suit your personal taste
- Explore variations of the traditional Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk recipe to make it your own
What Makes Traditional Brazilian Lemonade Recipe Special
The unique combination of tart limes, sweet condensed milk, and ice creates a paradoxical beverage that defies expectations. Despite its name, authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink actually uses limes, not lemons, creating confusion for first-timers but delight upon tasting. The creamy texture balanced with bright citrus notes makes this drink unforgettable.
Brazilian Lemonade (or Limonada Suíça as it’s called in Brazil) has become a beloved staple in Brazilian households and restaurants. The process of making traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe has been perfected over generations, resulting in a refreshing beverage that’s simultaneously creamy, sweet, and tangy.
The Cultural Significance of Brazilian Lemonade
Brazilian Lemonade emerged as a popular refreshment in Brazil, where the tropical climate demands cooling beverages. While its exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, it’s believed to have Swiss influences despite being thoroughly Brazilian today. This drink appears at family gatherings, restaurants, and street markets throughout Brazil, especially during the warm summer months.
Why Limes, Not Lemons?
Despite its name, authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink uses limes (typically Tahiti limes) rather than lemons. In Brazilian Portuguese, the word “limão” can refer to both lemons and limes, leading to the confusing name. The specific varieties of limes found in Brazil provide the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness that makes this beverage so distinctive.
The Magic of Condensed Milk
The secret ingredient that transforms Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk into something extraordinary is, of course, the condensed milk itself. This sweet, thick milk creates a creamy emulsion when blended with lime juice, softening the acidity while adding richness. The result is a unique drink that’s simultaneously refreshing and indulgent.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Brazilian Limeade with Condensed Milk
Creating the most delicious Brazilian Lemonade requires carefully selected ingredients. The quality of each component significantly impacts the final taste and texture of your refreshing beverage. For an authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink, you’ll need fresh limes, sweetened condensed milk, cold water, sugar, and plenty of ice.
The foundation of any great Brazilian Lemonade recipe requires:
- 6 fresh Tahiti limes (or Persian limes)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 6 cups cold filtered water
- ¼ to ½ cup granulated sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 4 cups ice cubes
- Pinch of salt (optional, to enhance flavors)
These ingredients work together harmoniously to create the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and creamy. The limes provide bright acidity, while the condensed milk adds velvety richness that distinguishes Brazilian Lemonade from other citrus drinks.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Tahiti limes | 6 medium | Primary flavor, acidity |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 14 oz can | Creaminess, sweetness |
| Cold filtered water | 6 cups | Base liquid, dilution |
| Granulated sugar | ¼ to ½ cup | Additional sweetness, balance |
| Ice cubes | 4 cups | Chilling, dilution |
| Salt (optional) | Pinch | Flavor enhancement |
With these ingredients, you can create a refreshingly creamy Brazilian Lemonade that showcases the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. It’s a beverage that will impress family and friends at any gathering, especially during warm weather.
Kitchen Tools for How to Make Brazilian Lemonade
Making delicious Brazilian Lemonade requires specific tools to achieve its signature creamy texture. A good blender is the most important piece of equipment for any traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe. It pulverizes the lime peel (without the bitter white pith) to release essential oils that provide incredible flavor.
You’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a sharp knife, cutting board, and fine-mesh strainer. These items help you prepare the limes properly and strain out the pulp for a smooth drink. Don’t forget measuring cups and a pitcher for serving your authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink.
Essential Brazilian Lemonade Tools
- Blender or food processor
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Large pitcher (at least 2-quart capacity)
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon or large spatula
- Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
Optional Equipment for Professional Results
For truly exceptional Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk, consider investing in some specialized tools. A microplane zester allows you to add lime zest for enhanced flavor without bitter pith. A bartender’s muddler can help extract oils from the lime peels before blending. These tools can elevate your homemade Brazilian Lemonade to professional quality.
| Tool | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Blender | Pulverizes lime and mixes ingredients | Essential for proper emulsion |
| Fine-mesh strainer | Removes pulp and pith | Creates smooth texture |
| Microplane zester | Removes only the lime zest | Enhances flavor without bitterness |
| Glass pitcher | Displays the beautiful drink | Improves presentation |
| Citrus juicer | Extracts maximum juice | Increases efficiency |
Preparing Your Easy Brazilian Lemonade Instructions
Creating an exceptional authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink requires attention to detail. Begin by selecting perfectly ripe limes – they should feel heavy for their size and have thin, smooth skin that yields slightly to gentle pressure. This is the foundation of any Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk worth making.
Gather all necessary ingredients: 6 fresh Tahiti limes, one 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk, 6 cups of cold water, sugar to taste, and plenty of ice. The preparation method for Brazilian Lemonade is unique compared to other citrus drinks, as it involves blending portions of the lime with the peel intact, which gives it that distinctive flavor profile.
Selecting and Preparing the Perfect Limes
The star of your traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe is, of course, the limes themselves. Choose limes that are bright green and aromatic for maximum flavor. To prepare them:
- Wash limes thoroughly under running water to remove any wax or residue
- Cut off both ends of each lime to remove the stem areas
- Cut each lime into 8 wedges
- Run your thumb along the white pith and remove any visible seeds
- Don’t remove all the peel – some will be blended for flavor
This method preserves the aromatic oils in the lime peel while minimizing bitterness from the pith. The careful preparation of limes is what gives authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink its distinctive flavor that can’t be replicated with just lime juice alone.
The Perfect Blending Technique
The blending process for Brazilian Lemonade is crucial and requires a specific approach:
- Place lime wedges, 2 cups of cold water, and ¼ cup sugar in a blender
- Pulse 3-4 times in short bursts (no more than 5 seconds each)
- Avoid over-blending, which extracts bitterness from the pith
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher
- Press gently with a spoon to extract liquid, but don’t force the pulp through
- Add remaining 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher
- Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until completely dissolved
This careful blending technique extracts the perfect amount of flavor from the limes without releasing too much bitterness. The short pulses are critical to achieving the optimal balance in your how to make Brazilian Lemonade process.
By following these steps meticulously, you’ll create a Brazilian Lemonade that’s bursting with authentic flavor and luxurious texture. Allow the mixture to chill thoroughly before serving for the best taste experience.
The Art of Balancing Flavors in Brazilian Lemonade
Creating the perfect Brazilian Lemonade requires mastering the delicate balance between tart lime, sweet condensed milk, and refreshing water. This critical balance determines the ultimate flavor profile of your authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink. When done correctly, you’ll achieve a harmonious beverage that’s simultaneously bright, creamy, and refreshing.
The ratio of ingredients is crucial – too much lime creates overwhelming acidity, while too much condensed milk can make the drink cloyingly sweet. The traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe calls for approximately one 14-ounce can of condensed milk to 6 medium limes and 6 cups of water, but this can be adjusted based on the particular limes you’re using and your personal preference.
Adjusting Sweetness and Acidity
Taste your Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk before serving and adjust as needed. If too tart, add a tablespoon of sugar or more condensed milk. If too sweet, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a bit more water. Remember that the drink will dilute slightly as ice melts, so account for this when adjusting flavors.
For a perfectly balanced Brazilian Lemonade, follow these guidelines:
- Use limes that are just ripe but not overripe
- Start with less sweetener than you think you’ll need – you can always add more
- Chill thoroughly before final flavor adjustments
- Consider that preferences vary – some enjoy a more tart drink, others prefer it sweeter
Achieving the Ideal Creaminess
The signature creaminess of Brazilian Lemonade comes from properly emulsifying the condensed milk with the lime mixture. To achieve the perfect creamy texture:
- Add condensed milk after straining the lime mixture
- Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for at least 30 seconds
- If necessary, return a portion to the blender for a few seconds to fully incorporate
- Serve immediately after mixing for the best texture
This careful approach ensures your easy Brazilian Lemonade instructions result in a drink with the ideal creamy consistency that doesn’t separate. The condensed milk should be fully incorporated, creating a uniform cloudy appearance rather than visible streaks or layers.
| Aspect | Too Little | Just Right | Too Much |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lime | Flat, overly sweet | Bright, refreshing | Harshly acidic, bitter |
| Condensed Milk | Thin, watery texture | Silky, light creaminess | Heavy, dessert-like |
| Sugar | Tart, possibly bitter | Balanced sweetness | Cloying, masks lime flavor |
| Blending Time | Insufficient lime flavor | Perfect extraction | Bitter from too much pith |
Creating Variations of Authentic Brazilian Lemonade Drink
Exploring variations of Brazilian Lemonade reveals its incredible versatility. With simple adjustments to the base recipe, you can create numerous unique drinks that maintain the essence of the traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe while introducing exciting new flavors. These creative adaptations allow you to customize your Brazilian Lemonade to suit any occasion or preference.
For a refreshing twist, consider adding complementary fruits or herbs that enhance the lime and condensed milk foundation. Fresh mint leaves create a cooling effect perfect for hot summer days, while passion fruit adds tropical complexity that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
Exciting Flavor Combinations
Try these inspirational flavor combinations to elevate your Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk:
- Coconut Brazilian Lemonade: Replace half the water with coconut water and add a splash of coconut extract
- Pineapple-Lime Brazilian Lemonade: Add ½ cup fresh pineapple chunks to the blender
- Mint Brazilian Lemonade: Muddle fresh mint leaves and add them to the final mixture
- Passion Fruit Brazilian Lemonade: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of passion fruit pulp per serving
- Cucumber-Lime Brazilian Lemonade: Add 3 inches of peeled cucumber to the blender for a refreshing twist
Dietary Adaptations
Modern dietary needs shouldn’t prevent anyone from enjoying authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink. Create inclusive versions with these substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Replace condensed milk with coconut condensed milk
- Vegan: Use plant-based condensed milk alternatives made from coconut or oat milk
- Low-Sugar: Use a sugar-free condensed milk and stevia or monk fruit sweetener
- Alcohol-Optional: Add a splash of cachaça (Brazilian rum) or vodka for an adult version
These variations demonstrate how adaptable Brazilian Lemonade can be while still maintaining its essential character. Experiment with different combinations to discover your signature version of this Brazilian classic.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Brazilian Lemonade | Coconut water, coconut extract | Tropical twist on the classic |
| Spiced Brazilian Lemonade | Cinnamon, star anise | Warming spices add complexity |
| Berry Brazilian Lemonade | Strawberries or raspberries | Fruity sweetness complements lime |
| Herbal Brazilian Lemonade | Basil, mint, or rosemary | Aromatic herbs add sophistication |
| Adult Brazilian Lemonade | Cachaça or vodka | Cocktail version of the classic drink |
How to Serve Brazilian Lemonade for Maximum Enjoyment
Properly serving your homemade Brazilian Lemonade is crucial for showcasing its unique creamy-citrus flavor profile. Always serve this authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink well-chilled, preferably in glasses that have been pre-chilled in the freezer for at least 15 minutes. This ensures the drink stays refreshingly cold from first sip to last.
The visual presentation enhances the experience of Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk. Serve in clear glasses to display its characteristic cloudy appearance. Tall glasses work particularly well, allowing room for plenty of ice and optional garnishes while showcasing the drink’s unique color and texture.
Perfect Garnishes and Pairings
Enhance your traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe with thoughtfully chosen garnishes:
- Lime wheels or wedges perched on the rim of each glass
- Fresh mint sprigs for color contrast and aromatic quality
- A light dusting of lime zest on top for visual appeal and intensified flavor
- Colorful paper straws or glass straws for both aesthetic and environmental benefits
Brazilian Lemonade pairs excellently with spicy or savory foods, as its creamy sweetness balances heat and salt beautifully. Consider serving alongside:
- Brazilian cheese bread (Pão de Queijo)
- Spicy grilled meats
- Salty snacks like plantain chips
- Traditional Brazilian feijoada
Serving for Gatherings
When preparing easy Brazilian Lemonade instructions for a group, consider these strategies:
- Make the base mixture up to 4 hours ahead, but add ice just before serving
- Prepare a concentrated base (without the full water amount) and allow guests to dilute to their preference
- Set up a Brazilian Lemonade bar with optional add-ins like fruit purees, herbs, and sweeteners
- Consider freezing some Brazilian Lemonade in ice cube trays to use instead of regular ice for serving
By following these serving suggestions, you’ll ensure every glass of your homemade Brazilian Lemonade delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture and bright citrus flavor that makes this drink a beloved Brazilian classic.
Troubleshooting Common Brazilian Lemonade Issues
Making authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink sometimes presents challenges. Understanding how to address these issues ensures your traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe turns out perfectly every time. Below are solutions to common problems you might encounter.
One frequent issue is bitterness in the final drink. This typically occurs from over-blending the limes, which extracts too much bitter compound from the pith and peel. To prevent this, limit blending to just a few quick pulses and never blend continuously. If your Brazilian Lemonade tastes bitter, try adding a pinch of salt and additional sweetener to counteract the bitterness.
Preventing Separation and Curdling
Separation can occur when the acidic lime juice causes the proteins in condensed milk to curdle. To prevent this common issue with Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk:
- Ensure the lime mixture is well-strained before adding condensed milk
- Add condensed milk gradually while stirring continuously
- Serve immediately after mixing or refresh with a quick stir before serving
- Keep the drink well-chilled at all times
- Consider adding a tiny pinch of baking soda to neutralize some acidity
Fixing Flavor Issues
Sometimes your how to make Brazilian Lemonade efforts might result in a drink that’s too sweet or not flavorful enough. To address flavor balance:
- If too sweet: Add fresh lime juice (not blended with peel) to increase acidity
- If too tart: Add small amounts of condensed milk or simple syrup
- If flavor is weak: Add a few drops of fresh lime zest oil or a very small amount of lime extract
- If too watery: Reduce water content and add more lime and condensed milk
Texture Remedies
Achieving the perfect creamy texture in Brazilian Lemonade can be challenging. If your drink doesn’t have the signature silky consistency:
- Ensure you’re using true sweetened condensed milk, not evaporated milk
- Try blending a small portion of the final mixture (about 1 cup) and then returning it to the pitcher
- Make sure the condensed milk is completely dissolved with no streaking
- Serve over crushed rather than cubed ice for a more consistent texture
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Bitter taste | Over-blending limes | Pulse briefly, add pinch of salt |
| Separation | Acidity curdling milk | Strain well, add milk gradually |
| Too sweet | Too much condensed milk | Add fresh lime juice |
| Too tart | Insufficient sweetener | Add more condensed milk |
| Chunky texture | Inadequate straining | Use finer strainer, press gently |
The Cultural Significance of Brazilian Lemonade in Brazil
Brazilian Lemonade holds a special place in Brazil’s culinary landscape as a beloved refreshment deeply integrated into daily life and celebrations. This traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe appears at family gatherings, restaurants, street markets, and beachside vendors throughout the country. Understanding its cultural context enhances appreciation of this unique beverage.
In Brazil, this drink is actually called “Limonada Suíça” (Swiss Lemonade), despite having no clear connection to Switzerland. Some theories suggest the name comes from the drink’s milky appearance resembling the snowy Swiss Alps, while others believe Swiss immigrants may have introduced the recipe. Regardless of its mysterious name, Brazilian Lemonade has become thoroughly Brazilian in character.
Regional Variations Across Brazil
Different regions of Brazil have developed their own versions of authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink:
- In Northeastern Brazil, coconut water often replaces some or all of the regular water
- In the Amazon region, cupuaçu (a relative of cacao) or other tropical fruits might be added
- In Southern Brazil, a touch of ginger adds warmth to the traditional recipe
- In urban centers like São Paulo, artisanal variations include unexpected ingredients like herbs or exotic fruits
Brazilian Lemonade in Social Contexts
How to make Brazilian Lemonade is knowledge passed down through generations in Brazilian families. The drink often appears at:
- Family Sunday lunches, where it pairs perfectly with hearty Brazilian fare
- Children’s birthday parties as a special treat
- Beach outings in insulated containers to stay cool under the Brazilian sun
- Restaurants, where it’s often served in shared pitchers for the whole table
By understanding the cultural significance of Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk, you connect with Brazilian traditions and appreciate how this simple yet distinctive drink has become intertwined with daily life and special occasions throughout the country.
Storage and Freshness Tips for Brazilian Lemonade
Properly storing your homemade Brazilian Lemonade is essential for maintaining its delicate flavor balance and creamy texture. For best results, store any leftover Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator. Avoid plastic containers, which can absorb flavors and affect the taste of your carefully crafted drink.
Brazilian Lemonade is best consumed fresh, ideally within 24 hours of preparation. The bright citrus flavors begin to diminish over time, and the creamy texture may change as the ingredients settle. If you need to prepare ahead for a gathering, consider making just the lime base in advance and adding the condensed milk just before serving.
Maximizing Freshness
To maintain the quality of your traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe for as long as possible:
- Store in a glass pitcher with an airtight lid
- Keep refrigerated at all times, even when serving (use an ice bucket)
- Stir thoroughly before serving to redistribute any settled ingredients
- If separation occurs, blend briefly to restore the emulsion
- Add fresh ice when serving leftover lemonade to refresh the drink
Make-Ahead Strategies
When planning to serve Brazilian Lemonade for an event, consider these preparation strategies:
- Prepare a concentrated base (limes, some water, sugar) up to 48 hours ahead
- Store this base separately from the condensed milk
- Mix the base with condensed milk and remaining water just before guests arrive
- Keep chilled in pitchers no more than 75% full to allow for stirring without spills
These storage and freshness tips ensure that every glass of your authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture and bright citrus flavor. With proper handling, you can enjoy this refreshing beverage at its peak quality even when preparing for larger gatherings.
| Storage Duration | Quality | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0-4 hours | Excellent | Peak flavor and texture |
| 4-24 hours | Very Good | Slight settling, stir before serving |
| 24-48 hours | Good | Noticeably diminished brightness, may need refreshing |
| 48+ hours | Fair | Best to make a fresh batch |
Conclusion: Mastering Your Authentic Brazilian Lemonade Drink
Creating a delicious traditional Brazilian Lemonade recipe is truly rewarding. You now possess the knowledge and techniques to make this exceptional beverage in your own kitchen. The secret lies in selecting perfectly ripe limes, using quality ingredients, and following the proper methods for preparation, blending, and serving.
The unique creamy-citrus profile of your homemade Brazilian Limeade with condensed milk comes from the perfect balance of tart limes, sweet condensed milk, and refreshing water. Patience during the blending and straining processes results in a drink with incomparable texture and taste that simply cannot be found in store-bought versions.
Continue refining your easy Brazilian Lemonade instructions by experimenting with different lime varieties, sweetness levels, and creative additions. This versatile beverage welcomes creativity while remaining fundamentally simple – a celebration of Brazil’s ingenious approach to refreshment transformed into a creamy delight.
The true joy of authentic Brazilian Lemonade drink lies not just in its incredible taste but in the experience of creating something special from scratch. Each sip represents your dedication to quality and captures the essence of Brazilian culinary tradition. Share your Brazilian Lemonade with family and friends, and take pride in mastering this unique and beloved beverage.
Creamy Brazilian Lemonade
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 6 medium limes Tahiti/Persian
- 1 can 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 6 cups cold water divided
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups ice cubes
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prep Limes: Wash thoroughly. Cut ends off, quarter (leave peels on!).
- First Blend: In blender, combine limes + 2 cups water + sugar. Pulse 5x (1-sec bursts).
- Strain: Pour through strainer into pitcher. Press pulp gently – discard solids.
- Mix: Add remaining 4 cups water + condensed milk. Stir until smooth.
- Chill: Refrigerate 30 mins. Serve over ice!
Notes
- Coconut Twist: Swap 2 cups water with coconut water
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut condensed milk
- Adult Version: Add 2 oz cachaça (Brazilian rum)
- No Bitter Taste: DON’T over-blend – 5 pulses max!
- Make Ahead: Base keeps 24hrs (add ice when serving)
Nutrition
FAQ
What is Brazilian Lemonade?
Despite its name, Brazilian Lemonade (Limonada Suíça) is actually made with limes, not lemons. It’s a creamy, refreshing drink from Brazil that combines lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, water, sugar, and ice for a unique beverage that’s simultaneously tart, sweet, and creamy.
Why is it called “lemonade” if it’s made with limes?
In Brazilian Portuguese, the word “limão” can refer to both lemons and limes, causing some translation confusion. When the drink gained international popularity, the name “Brazilian Lemonade” stuck, despite it being made with limes.
What are the essential ingredients for making Brazilian Lemonade?
You’ll need fresh Tahiti or Persian limes, sweetened condensed milk, filtered water, sugar, and ice. Optional ingredients include a pinch of salt to enhance flavors and lime zest for garnish.
What equipment do I need to make Brazilian Lemonade?
Basic equipment includes a blender, sharp knife, cutting board, fine-mesh strainer, and a pitcher for serving. A microplane zester is helpful for garnishes, and a citrus juicer can make preparation easier.
How do I prevent bitterness in my Brazilian Lemonade?
To avoid bitterness, remove the white pith from limes as much as possible, blend only in short pulses (not continuous blending), and strain the mixture thoroughly before adding condensed milk. If bitterness occurs, a pinch of salt can help counteract it.
Can I make Brazilian Lemonade ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best served fresh. If making ahead, prepare the lime base and add the condensed milk just before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours for best quality, stirring well before serving.
Can I make Brazilian Lemonade dairy-free or vegan?
Yes! Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk or other plant-based condensed milk alternatives. The flavor profile will change slightly, but the drink will still be delicious.
How can I adjust the sweetness of Brazilian Lemonade?
Start with less sweetened condensed milk and sugar than the recipe calls for, then taste and adjust. You can always add more sweetener, but you can’t remove it once added. Remember that very cold beverages taste less sweet, so the drink may taste sweeter as it warms slightly.