There’s something about fall and winter that makes every cocktail beg for a little warmth... not necessarily heat, but warmth. I'm talking the kind of warmth that comes from those hella nostalgic baking spices that show up everywhere this time of year. So say hellow to this Seasonal Spiced Syrup. It’s my secret weapon for instantly transforming simple drinks into something that feels layered, and fall / winter-y.
Think Old Fashioneds, hot toddies, or even a classic Daiquiri (because what we all consider "winter baking spices" are technically more like island spices). This syrup adds a cozy, spiced backbone without overwhelming the base spirit.
What You’ll Need:
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2 cups organic cane sugar
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1 cup water
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2 whole cinnamon sticks (no powder or grounds here!)
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3 whole cloves
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7-8 allspice berries
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2-3 whole star anise
Instructions:
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Combine sugar and water: In a small saucepan, stir together the sugar and water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Don’t boil—just a gentle simmer does the job.
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Add spices: Drop in the cinnamon, clove, allspice, and star anise. You can give them a gentle "crush" with a spoon or muddler before adding. Let them steep over low heat for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll notice the syrup darken slightly as the spices infuse.
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Cool and strain: Remove from heat and let the syrup sit for another 10-15 minutes off heat to deepen the flavor. Strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
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Bottle and store: Pour into a clean glass bottle or jar and refrigerate. It’ll stay fresh for 2 weeks, and maybe a bit longer if you add a bit of vodka.
Variation:
If you want a bolder flavor—say, for whiskey or rum cocktails—double the cinnamon and let it steep for longer. For lighter spirits like gin or tequila, pull back on the clove to keep it from taking over.
(Pro tip for bartenders: this syrup batches beautifully. Use it in service to quickly add complexity to seasonal cocktails.)
How to Use It
This syrup plays well with just about anything, but here are a few ideas to get you started:
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Spiced Old Fashioned (2 oz bourbon, 1 teaspoon spiced syrup, 5-6 dashes Angostura bitters)
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Hot Buttered Rum, with a touch of this syrup instead of extra sugar
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Spiced Espresso Martini (yes, really—trust me)
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A splash in your morning coffee or chai for cozy season vibes
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Zero-proof spritz with soda and an orange slice
Final Pour
I hope you make a batch, tag @highproofpreacher, and show me how you’re using it. And if you’re not already subscribed, sign up for Simple Syrup Monthly to get more original recipes like this in your inbox every month.
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