Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a small pot, combine ¾ cup of sugar with ¾ cup of water. Heat on medium-high until boiling, then reduce to a simmer. Allow it to simmer gently without stirring for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the mixture is clear. Remove from heat, add 1 tablespoon of black gel food color, stir, and set aside to cool.

Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, pour in 1 ½ cups of fresh lemon juice. Add the cooled black sugar syrup and 4 cups of cold water. Stir gently until well combined.

Serve Over Ice: Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the Black Lemonade over the ice, and garnish each glass with a slice of lemon if desired.