In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of filtered cold water. Heat over medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely, about 3–5 minutes. Bring to a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

While the syrup cools, take 4–6 fresh lemons and roll them on a countertop to maximize juice yield. Cut them in half and, using a juicer or your hands, extract the juice until you have about 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp.

Grab a large pitcher and pour in the cooled simple syrup along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add 4 cups of filtered cold water to the mixture. Stir well until everything is fully combined.

To give your black lemonade its enchanting hue, stir in either 1-2 teaspoons of food coloring or 1 teaspoon of activated charcoal carefully adding it until you reach your desired dark color.

Pour the alluring black lemonade into clear glasses filled with ice. For an even spookier presentation, rim the glasses with black sugar and garnish with lemon wheels or dry ice.