Spiced Pear Syrup

1. Add cane sugar, water, diced pear, fresh ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise to a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
3. Lower the heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes.
4. Take it off the heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool for 10 minutes. The longer it sits, the stronger the flavor of the spices will be.
5. Strain it into a bowl or a large measuring cup. Use the back of a spoon to squeeze out as much just out of the pear as you can.
6. Store the syrup in an airtight container or a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Allow to cool before closing with a lid.

Spiced Pear Cocktail

1. Add spiced rum or bourbon, spiced pear syrup, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker.
2. Add a handful of ice and shake vigorously for a few seconds until very cool to the touch.
3. Strain the cocktail into a short glass over ice and top up with sparkling water if desired. Garnish with sliced pear, a lemon slice or a twist, a stick of cinnamon or star anise, and enjoy!