Infused with warm spices, this simple syrup adds wintry cheer to anything it tops. Try it on citrus fruits for a winter fruit salad or in this Spiced Cranberry Sangría by Chef Jose Garces of Amada restaurant in Philadelphia.Adapted from Jose Garces

  • Yield: 2 3/4 cups
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Total: 10 mins, plus cooling time
  • Active: Under 5 mins

Ingredients (6)

  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks
  • 8 allspice berries
  • 6 cloves
  • 3 whole star anise pods

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
  2. Remove from heat and let cool until lukewarm. Strain syrup through a fine mesh strainer into a heatproof airtight container and discard spices.
  3. Cover and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.