Of course! “Cream Cheese Lemonade” is a fascinating and delicious twist on a classic. It’s essentially a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy lemonade that tastes like a lemon cheesecake in a glass.
It’s also known by other names like “Cheesecake Lemonade” or “Cream Cheese Lemonade Drink.”
Here’s a complete guide to what it is and how to make it.
What is Cream Cheese Lemonade?
It’s a blended beverage that combines:
· The tangy sweetness of lemonade (from fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar)
· The rich, creamy flavor of cheesecake (from cream cheese and often a touch of vanilla)
· A smooth, milkshake-like texture (from being blended with ice)
The result is a refreshing yet indulgent drink that’s perfect for a hot day or as a unique dessert.
Recipe: How to Make Cream Cheese Lemonade
This recipe is for a single, large serving. It’s easily doubled or tripled.
Ingredients:
· Cream Cheese Base:
· 2 oz (55g) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (or 3 tbsp sugar + 2 tbsp milk)
· 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, enhances the “cheesecake” flavor)
· Lemonade:
· 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 large lemons)
· 1/4 cup water (or more to taste)
· 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
· For Blending:
· 1.5 to 2 cups of ice
Instructions:
- Soften the Cream Cheese: This is the most important step! Leave the cream cheese on the counter for 30-60 minutes before you start. If it’s too cold, it will create chunky bits in your drink instead of a smooth puree.
- Make the Cream Cheese Base: In a blender, combine the softened cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk (or sugar+milk), and vanilla extract. Blend until completely smooth. Scrape down the sides if needed.
- Add Lemonade Components: Add the fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar to the blender.
- Add Ice: Add the ice last.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high until the drink is completely smooth, slushy, and frosty. If it’s too thick, add a little more water (one tablespoon at a time) and blend again.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your creation. You might want to add a pinch more sugar for sweetness or a splash more lemon juice for tang.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into a tall glass, garnish with a lemon slice, and enjoy with a straw!
Pro Tips & Variations:
· For a Super Smooth Texture: If you have a less powerful blender, you can mix the cream cheese base by hand with a whisk or in a food processor first to ensure no lumps.
· Sweetened Condensed Milk vs. Sugar: Using sweetened condensed milk adds an incredible richness and creaminess that’s highly recommended. Using plain sugar and milk is a good substitute, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
· Make it a Strawberry Cheesecake Lemonade: Add a handful of fresh or frozen strawberries to the blender for a pink, fruity twist.
· Make it a Blueberry Lemonade: Add a handful of blueberries for a beautiful purple color and antioxidant boost.
· Adult Version: Add a shot of vodka, citrus-flavored vodka, or gin for a fantastic summer cocktail.
· Prep Ahead: You can make a large batch of the cream cheese base (without ice) and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for a drink, just scoop some base into the blender, add lemon juice, water, and ice.
What Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the best parts of a frozen lemonade and a cheesecake milkshake had a baby. It’s:
· Creamy and luxurious from the cream cheese.
· Tangy and bright from the fresh lemon juice.
· Sweet and refreshing.
· Surprisingly light despite the rich ingredients.
It’s an absolutely delicious and unique treat that’s sure to impress. Enjoy