I still remember the first time I served this Witches’ Brew Lemonade at a Halloween party—everyone’s eyes lit up (just like the candy eyeballs floating in their glasses!).
It’s eerie, fizzy, and citrusy with a striking black hue that casts a fun, festive spell over any spooky celebration.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Spooky and fun – It’s a drink and a Halloween decoration in one.
Refreshingly citrusy – Lemon juice keeps it bright and delicious.
Simple to make – Just a few steps and ingredients.
Party-perfect – Looks magical and tastes amazing.
Customizable – Great for kids or grown-ups (even spiked!).
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Fresh lemon juice – For a tangy, refreshing base.
Granulated sugar – Balances the sour lemon flavor.
Activated charcoal powder – Adds the dramatic black color.
Soda water – Adds fizzy fun and texture.
Gummy worms or candy eyeballs – The spooky touch that makes this unforgettable.
Fresh lemon slices – Bright garnish to contrast the dark drink.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use food-grade activated charcoal only (safe for drinking).
Add soda water at the end to keep the fizz fresh.
Use chilled ingredients to serve it cold without too much ice dilution.
Prep your garnishes ahead for quick assembly.
Want to make it for adults? Add a splash of vodka or gin.
How to Make Witches’ Brew Lemonade
Step 1: Mix the Lemonade Base
Combine water, lemon juice, and sugar in a large pitcher.
Stir until sugar fully dissolves.
Step 2: Add the Charcoal
Stir in the activated charcoal powder.
The mixture will turn a spooky black—perfect for Halloween vibes!
Step 3: Add Fizz
Gently pour in soda water. Stir lightly to keep the bubbles alive.
Step 4: Slice Garnishes
Cut fresh lemon slices and set them aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Drink
Fill glasses with ice. Pour in the lemonade and top with lemon slices.
Step 6: Add Decorations
Drop gummy worms or candy eyeballs on top for a creepy and fun finish.
What to Serve It With
Halloween cupcakes or cookies
Savory treats like mini mummy hot dogs
Popcorn drizzled with orange and black chocolate
Candy corn or themed snack mix
Charcoal pizza or other dark-colored snacks
Variations / Substitutions
Use lime juice instead of lemon for a green hue (great with green food coloring).
For a less intense black, use less charcoal or mix with purple food coloring.
Add a splash of fruit juice (cranberry or blackberry) for a flavor twist.
Use sparkling lemonade instead of soda water.
Make a frozen version with crushed ice and blend it slushy-style.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store lemonade (without soda water) up to 2 days.
Add fizz later: Always add soda water right before serving.
Pre-cut garnishes: Lemon slices and decorations can be prepped ahead.
Charcoal separation: Stir before serving if it settles.
Don’t freeze: Freezing affects the texture and carbonation.
FAQs
Is activated charcoal safe to drink?
Yes—just be sure it’s food-grade and used in small amounts.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Mix the lemonade base ahead, but add soda water and garnishes just before serving.
Does it taste like charcoal?
Not at all. Charcoal is flavorless, so the lemonade flavor still shines through.
What age is this drink suitable for?
It’s great for both kids and adults—just skip the alcohol version for the little ones.
Can I skip the charcoal and still make it spooky?
Yes! Try purple or green food coloring instead for a Halloween twist.
How can I make it look extra eerie?
Serve it in test tubes or smoky glasses with dry ice (handled safely!).
Does the charcoal stain teeth?
It may leave a slight tint temporarily, but it’s harmless and rinses off easily.
Final Thoughts
Witches’ Brew Lemonade is the kind of drink that sparks conversation, laughter, and plenty of Halloween spirit.
Whether you’re serving it at a haunted house bash or just want to surprise the kids after trick-or-treating, it’s a spooky-chic twist on classic lemonade that never fails to impress.
