Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or honey)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1 liter chilled sparkling water or club soda
- 1 large orange, sliced into rounds
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Step 1: Simmer the Spiced Cranberry Syrup Combine the cranberries, sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Use a wooden spoon to occasionally stir the ingredients. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to “pop” and release their juices. The liquid should turn a deep, brilliant red. Remove the pan from the heat and let it steep for another 5 minutes to intensify the spice flavors.
- Step 2: Strain and Chill Place a fine-mesh strainer over a glass jar or bowl. Pour the cranberry mixture through the strainer, pressing down on the solids with the back of a spoon to extract every drop of flavored syrup. Discard the solids and spices. Place the syrup in the refrigerator to cool completely. For the best results, make sure the syrup is cold before you begin the final assembly to keep your drink refreshing.
- Step 3: Assemble and Garnish Fill four tall glasses or festive goblets with ice cubes. Pour 2 to 3 tablespoons of the chilled spiced cranberry syrup into each glass. Top the syrup with chilled sparkling water, leaving a little room at the top. Stir gently with a long spoon to incorporate the colors. Add an orange slice and a few fresh cranberries to each glass. Finish by tucking a sprig of fresh rosemary into the ice for a fragrant, forest-like aroma.
- Cook Time: 15 minutes