The part that hooked me was the quick pulse in the blender to grab the lemon oils without pulling in bitterness, my blender appreciates the short workout. Removing the pith is a smart touch, and those cozy spices with ice sound like a tiny rescue from the heat. Have you tried swapping in honey or adding a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist?
It would surely be delicious and much healthier with honey, but honey is expensive, and to sweeten a quantity of lemonade like the one I made, you would need a considerable amount of honey.
A bubbly touch? That sounds great; this is more affordable for me.
You're right, honey adds up fast for a big batch. Try mostly sugar with just a spoon or two of honey for aroma, plus a tiny pinch of salt so it tastes sweeter with less sugar. Top each glass with club soda for that bubbly touch and you’ve got a light spiced lemonade spritz. Panela or brown sugar can also give a cozy flavor on a budget.