Homemade Lemonade Recipe Using Activated Charcoal

Our take on the activated charcoal lemonade craze looks much cooler than the sludge-colored detox drinks everyone seems to be sipping lately. We froze our activated charcoal into ice cubes, creating a stark contrast when served in bright lemonade. When the ice starts to melt, it creates a cool-looking swirling effect as the charcoal mixes with the drink.

Activated charcoal is known for its porous surface, which may help bind to certain substances in the digestive tract. It’s often used in wellness routines, but should be consumed occasionally and in small amounts, as it can interfere with nutrient absorption or medications.

To give it an extra boost, we mixed in Great Lakes Gelatin’s Collagen Hydrolysate powder. Collagen helps keep joints flexible and skin supple but because it decreases with age, it’s important to replenish with collagen-rich foods or supplements. This powder from Great Lakes has been hydrolyzed so it won’t congeal and features a unique combination of amino acids that may be beneficial for bone and joint health.

Hydrolyzed collagen (also called collagen peptides) is broken down into smaller proteins, making it easier to dissolve in both hot and cold liquids—perfect for adding to drinks like this one without affecting texture or taste. Some studies suggest that collagen supplements may help support skin elasticity and hydration, and promote joint comfort when taken consistently over time.

Collagen also naturally contains glycine and proline, two amino acids that may play a role in supporting connective tissue, gut lining, and muscle repair.

---

Homemade Lemonade with Activated Charcoal & Collagen

Recipe Details

Yield: 10 to 12 servings
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours (freezing time included)

Lemonade Ingredients

For the activated charcoal ice cubes

• 4 tablespoons activated charcoal powder
• 2 cups water

For the collagen lemonade

• 5 tablespoons collagen hydrolysate
• ¾ cup honey
• 1 cup hot water
• 6 cups cold water
• 2 cups fresh lemon juice
• 2 to 3 lemons, sliced

How to Make Activated Charcoal Lemonade

1. Make the activated charcoal ice cubes: Break charcoal capsules by cutting with scissors to add the charcoal powder to a large container. Add the water. Stir until blended.
2. Pour the liquid into ice cube molds. Freeze for 8 hours or overnight.
3. Make the collagen lemonade: In large pitcher, add honey, collagen powder, and hot water; stir until honey dissolves.
4. Add lemon juice and cold water; stir until well mixed.
5. Fill a glass with activated charcoal ice cubes and pour lemonade over the ice. Garnish with a lemon slice.

---

Activated Charcoal Lemonade Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 12 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 serving (1/12 of recipe)
Calories	≈ 120 kcal
Protein	≈ 4 g
Carbs	≈ 28 g
Sugar	≈ 27 g
Fiber	≈ 0 g
Fat	≈ 0 g

---

Activated Charcoal Lemonade Variations & Tips

• Charcoal ice creative: Use different shapes (spheres, cubes) or layer light coconut water in the molds to make multi-tone effects.
• Sugar swap options: Replace honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or a blend of monk fruit + liquid sweetener for lower glycemic impact.
• Fruit twist: Add fresh citrus zest (orange, grapefruit) or a small splash of berry purée for layered flavor contrast.
• Herbal lift: Infuse mint, basil, or even rosemary into the hot water before mixing to introduce herbaceous depth.
• Chill before serving: Let the lemonade cold rest before pouring over the charcoal ice cubes to moderate the swirl speed.
• Alternate binders: If you skip the collagen, try a scoop of plant-based protein or a bit of chia gel to help with texture.
• Contrast garnish: Add a lemon wheel, edible flowers, or black sesame seeds on top for visual appeal.

---

Best Lemonade Pairings

• Fresh fruit slices: Lemon, lime, or orange to echo citrus brightness.
• Herbal iced tea or green tea: A lighter companion that doesn’t overshadow the bold look.
• Mint or basil sprigs: Fresh herb garnish to sip along as aromatics.
• Light snacks: Crisp vegetables, seed crackers, or simple nut mixes to keep the focus on the drink.
• Chill desserts: Coconut milk popsicles, sorbets, or frozen yogurt—light and refreshing contrasts.

---

When to Make Lemonade

• Wellness brunches or clean drinking events — show up with a drink that’s both eye-catching and conversation-starting.
• Detox or reset days — a fun ritual drink on days you’re going lighter.
• Instagram- or TikTok-worthy parties — the visual swirl makes it shareable and fun.
• Early summer afternoons — served over charcoal ice, it’s cool and dramatic for warm days.
• Health-minded get-togethers — adds variety to beverage lineups beyond water or juice.

Recipe by: Angela Gaines
Photo credit: Paul Delmont