🍋 Cream Cheese Lemonade – Full Recipe
This refreshing, creamy twist on traditional lemonade is rich, tangy, and perfect for summer.
🧾 Ingredients:
For the Lemonade Base:
-
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
-
¾ to 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
-
4 cups cold water
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
-
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
-
½ cup sweetened condensed milk
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
½ cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
Optional:
-
Ice cubes
-
Lemon slices for garnish
-
Mint leaves for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
1. Make the Lemonade:
-
In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and sugar.
-
Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
-
Add the cold water and stir again. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
-
Chill in the fridge while preparing the cream cheese mixture.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Blend:
-
In a blender or using a hand mixer, blend the softened cream cheese until smooth.
-
Add sweetened condensed milk, milk, and vanilla extract.
-
Blend until creamy and fully combined.
3. Combine:
-
Slowly pour the cream cheese mixture into the lemonade pitcher.
-
Stir or whisk well until fully mixed and smooth.
-
Serve over ice.
🧊 Serving Tips:
-
Serve immediately over ice for best texture.
-
Garnish with a lemon slice or mint sprig for presentation.
-
Shake/stir before serving if it sits for a while—separation is normal.
❓ Q&A: Cream Cheese Lemonade
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Yes, but fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Bottled juice can be more bitter or artificial-tasting.
Q: Can I use low-fat or non-dairy cream cheese?
A: You can, but it may affect the creaminess and taste. Full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture and flavor.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, try using vegan cream cheese (like almond- or soy-based), coconut condensed milk, and a plant-based milk alternative (like oat or almond milk).
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes, but it’s best consumed the same day. If making ahead, store in the fridge and shake well before serving. Separation may occur after a few hours.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: Absolutely. You can use honey, agave, or stevia. Adjust to taste. Just ensure it’s fully dissolved.
Q: Is it fizzy?
A: Not traditionally, but you can replace some or all of the water with sparkling water for a fizzy version.