15 Star Anise Cocktails for Winter

warm spiced winter drinks

Star Anise Spiced Hot Toddy

star anise hot toddy recipe

The Star Anise Spiced Hot Toddy is a warm, comforting drink perfect for chilly winter evenings. With the soothing flavors of whiskey, honey, and citrus complemented by the distinctive taste of star anise, this cocktail not only warms the body but also uplifts the spirit. It’s a wonderful choice for relaxing after a long day or for sharing with friends during the festive season.

Ingredients Quantity
Hot water 1 cup
Whiskey 2 oz
Honey 1 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp
Star anise 1 pod
Cinnamon stick 1 stick (optional)
Lemon slice For garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a heatproof glass or mug, combine the whiskey, honey, and fresh lemon juice.
  2. Add the star anise and cinnamon stick (if using).
  3. Pour in the hot water and stir until the honey is dissolved.
  4. Taste and adjust sweetness with more honey if desired.
  5. Garnish with a lemon slice and enjoy your cozy Star Anise Spiced Hot Toddy!
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Winter Wonderland Mule

festive vodka ginger cocktail

The Winter Wonderland Mule is a festive twist on the classic Moscow Mule, bringing the warm, aromatic flavors of star anise and ginger together in a revitalizing cocktail that’s perfect for winter. Served in a traditional copper mug, this drink combines vodka with spicy ginger beer, a splash of lime juice, and the exotic taste of star anise, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 2 oz
Ginger beer 4 oz
Fresh lime juice 1 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Ice For serving
Lime wheel For garnish
Fresh mint leaves For garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Fill a copper mug with ice.
  2. Pour in the vodka, fresh lime juice, and top with ginger beer.
  3. Add the star anise to the cocktail.
  4. Stir gently to combine the flavors.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint leaves before serving. Enjoy your Winter Wonderland Mule!
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Anise-Infused Mulled Wine

warm spiced red wine

Anise-Infused Mulled Wine is a warm, comforting winter beverage that combines the rich flavors of red wine with the aromatic spices of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, this mulled wine recipe is sure to warm you from the inside out. The delightful blend of spices elevates the wine, creating a fragrant and delicious drink that’s ideal for sipping by the fire.

Ingredients Quantity
Red wine 1 bottle (750 ml)
Star anise 2 pods
Cinnamon sticks 2
Whole cloves 4-5
Fresh orange 1, sliced
Fresh lemon 1, sliced
Honey or sugar 2-4 tablespoons
Water 1 cup
Fresh cranberries (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, water, star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and honey or sugar.
  2. Add the sliced orange and lemon to the mixture.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
  4. Once heated, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Strain the mulled wine into mugs or heatproof glasses, discarding the spices and fruit slices.
  6. If desired, garnish with fresh cranberries and enjoy your Anise-Infused Mulled Wine!
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Spiced Gin and Tonic With Star Anise

spiced gin tonic recipe

Spiced Gin and Tonic with Star Anise is a revitalizing twist on the classic cocktail, perfect for winter gatherings or a cozy night in. The aromatic flavor of star anise complements the botanicals in gin and the crispness of tonic water, resulting in a drink that is both invigorating and soothing. This cocktail captures the essence of winter spices while remaining light and invigorating.

Ingredients Quantity
Gin 2 oz
Tonic water 4 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Fresh lime 1, juiced
Ice As needed
Fresh rosemary or mint (optional) A sprig for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in the gin and fresh lime juice.
  3. Add the tonic water and stir gently to combine.
  4. Add the star anise pod to the drink for infusion.
  5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh rosemary or mint, if desired.
  6. Enjoy your Spiced Gin and Tonic with Star Anise!
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Star Anise Old Fashioned

cozy spiced whiskey cocktail

Star Anise Old Fashioned is a bold and warm take on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, perfect for sipping by the fireplace during winter. The infusion of star anise offers a unique flavor profile that elevates the traditional whiskey base, bringing a cozy and aromatic touch to this timeless drink.

Ingredients Quantity
Bourbon or rye whiskey 2 oz
Simple syrup 1/2 oz
Angostura bitters 2 dashes
Star anise 1 pod
Orange peel 1 twist
Ice As needed

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, muddle the star anise pod with the simple syrup and Angostura bitters to release the flavors.
  2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and add the whiskey.
  3. Stir well until chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with the orange peel twist, expressing the oils over the drink.
  6. Enjoy your Star Anise Old Fashioned!
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Holiday Punch With Star Anise

festive holiday drink recipe

Holiday Punch With Star Anise is a festive and warm beverage ideal for winter gatherings and holiday celebrations. This punch combines a medley of seasonal flavors, including spice from star anise, the warmth of rum, and the brightness of citrus, creating a rich, aromatic drink that brings everyone together around the festivities.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark rum 2 cups
Apple cider 4 cups
Orange juice 1 cup
Fresh cranberries 1 cup
Star anise 3-4 pods
Cinnamon sticks 2-3 sticks
Honey or maple syrup 1/4 cup
Orange slices for garnish
Ice As needed

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, combine the dark rum, apple cider, orange juice, honey or maple syrup, star anise, and cinnamon sticks.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warm but not boiling.
  3. Add fresh cranberries and orange slices, allowing them to infuse the punch with flavor.
  4. Remove from heat and strain the punch into a bowl or pitcher, discarding the spices.
  5. Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses over ice if preferred, garnished with additional fruits and spices as desired.
  6. Enjoy your Holiday Punch With Star Anise!
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Cinnamon Star Anise Whiskey Sour

cinnamon infused whiskey cocktail

Cinnamon Star Anise Whiskey Sour is a delightful twist on the classic whiskey sour cocktail, perfect for winter evenings. This warming drink features the rich flavors of whiskey combined with the aromatic spice of cinnamon and star anise, creating a comforting and festive beverage that will surely become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients Quantity
Whiskey 2 oz
Fresh lemon juice 3/4 oz
Simple syrup 1/2 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp
Ice As needed
Lemon slice for garnish
Cinnamon stick for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, combine whiskey, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, ground cinnamon, and the star anise pod.
  2. Add ice to the shaker and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
  3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  4. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cinnamon stick for added flair.
  5. Serve and enjoy your Cinnamon Star Anise Whiskey Sour!
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Anise and Citrus Sparkler

revitalizing winter citrus cocktail

Anise and Citrus Sparkler is a revitalizing and effervescent cocktail that harmoniously blends the warming spice of star anise with bright citrus notes, making it an ideal drink for winter celebrations. With a vibrant mix of fresh juices and sparkling water, this cocktail not only delights the palate but also provides a unique twist that will impress your guests during chilly evenings.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh orange juice 2 oz
Fresh lemon juice 1 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Simple syrup 1/2 oz
Sparkling water to top
Ice As needed
Orange slice for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, combine the fresh orange juice, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and the star anise pod.
  2. Add ice to the shaker and shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
  3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  4. Top with sparkling water to add a revitalizing fizz.
  5. Garnish with an orange slice and a star anise pod. Serve and enjoy your Anise and Citrus Sparkler!
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Star Anise Dark and Stormy

warming spiced cocktail creation

The Star Anise Dark and Stormy is a warming twist on the classic Dark and Stormy cocktail, perfect for winter evenings. This spiced variation combines the rich flavor of dark rum with the warm, aromatic essence of star anise, complemented by zesty ginger beer and a splash of lime. It’s an inviting drink that balances warmth and zest, sure to become a favorite at your winter gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Dark rum 2 oz
Ginger beer 4 oz
Fresh lime juice 1/2 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Ice As needed
Lime wedge for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a glass, muddle the star anise pod to release its aromatic flavors.
  2. Fill the glass with ice, then pour in the dark rum and lime juice.
  3. Top with ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a star anise pod for an elegant touch. Serve and enjoy your Star Anise Dark and Stormy!
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Pomegranate Star Anise Martini

pomegranate vodka star anise

The Pomegranate Star Anise Martini is a festive and flavorful cocktail that beautifully marries the deep, tangy taste of pomegranate with the warm, aromatic notes of star anise. This elegant drink is perfect for winter gatherings, providing a chic and vibrant option that warms the soul while tantalizing the palate. The combination of pomegranate juice and vodka, enhanced by the unique flavor of star anise, makes for a delightful choice to toast the season.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 2 oz
Pomegranate juice 1 oz
Fresh lime juice 1/2 oz
Star anise 1 pod
Simple syrup 1/2 oz
Ice As needed
Pomegranate seeds for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, muddle the star anise pod to release its flavor.
  2. Add vodka, pomegranate juice, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker along with ice.
  3. Shake well until chilled and combined.
  4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a star anise pod. Serve and enjoy your Pomegranate Star Anise Martini!

Vanilla Star Anise Fizz

festive vanilla star anise

The Vanilla Star Anise Fizz is a delightful winter cocktail that combines the warm and comforting essence of vanilla with the aromatic spiciness of star anise. This effervescent drink is perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy evenings by the fire, offering a revitalizing yet rich flavor profile that is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Vodka 1.5 oz
Vanilla syrup 1 oz
Fresh lemon juice 1/2 oz
Star anise pod 1 pod
Club soda 3 oz
Ice As needed
Lemon slice for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, muddle the star anise pod to extract its flavor.
  2. Add vodka, vanilla syrup, fresh lemon juice, and ice to the shaker.
  3. Shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
  5. Garnish with a lemon slice and a star anise pod. Enjoy your Vanilla Star Anise Fizz!

Spicy Star Anise Margarita

spicy star anise cocktail

The Spicy Star Anise Margarita is a unique twist on the classic margarita, infusing the drink with the warm, licorice-like flavor of star anise and a kick of heat. This cocktail is perfect for those winter nights when you seek something both invigorating and comforting. The combination of tequila, fresh citrus, and the spiciness from jalapeño offers a delightful contrast that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds.

Ingredients Quantity
Tequila 2 oz
Fresh lime juice 1 oz
Orange liqueur 1 oz
Star anise pod 1 pod
Jalapeño slices 2-3 slices
Simple syrup 1/2 oz
Ice As needed
Lime wheel for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, muddle the star anise pod and jalapeño slices to release their flavors.
  2. Add tequila, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, simple syrup, and ice to the shaker.
  3. Shake vigorously until well chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
  5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a star anise pod. Enjoy your Spicy Star Anise Margarita!

Star Anise and Maple Bourbon Smash

bourbon maple star anise

The Star Anise and Maple Bourbon Smash is a delightful winter cocktail that beautifully combines the rich flavors of bourbon with the sweet, warming notes of maple syrup and the aromatic essence of star anise. This cocktail is perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet nights by the fire, offering a comforting drink that will warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Bourbon 2 oz
Fresh lemon juice 3/4 oz
Maple syrup 1/2 oz
Star anise pod 1 pod
Fresh mint leaves 5-6 leaves
Ice As needed
Lemon wheel for garnish
Star anise pod for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a shaker, muddle the star anise pod and fresh mint leaves to release their flavors.
  2. Add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and ice to the shaker.
  3. Shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into a glass over fresh ice.
  5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a star anise pod. Enjoy your Star Anise and Maple Bourbon Smash!

Creamy Star Anise Irish Coffee

indulgent anise irish coffee

The Creamy Star Anise Irish Coffee is a rich and indulgent twist on the classic Irish coffee, perfect for warming you up during the chilly winter months. The combination of robust coffee, smooth Irish whiskey, and the unique anise flavor create a luxurious drink that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream, this cocktail is ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening by the fire.

Ingredients Quantity
Freshly brewed coffee 4 oz
Irish whiskey 1.5 oz
Sugar 1-2 tsp
Heavy cream 1 oz
Star anise pod 1 pod
Ground cinnamon a pinch
Whipped cream for topping
Coffee beans (optional) for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a heat-proof glass, combine the freshly brewed coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and the star anise pod.
  2. Stir well until the sugar has dissolved.
  3. Lightly whip the heavy cream with a pinch of ground cinnamon until it thickens slightly but is still pourable.
  4. Remove the star anise pod from the coffee mixture and carefully pour the whipped cream over the back of a spoon to float it on top.
  5. Garnish with coffee beans if desired and serve immediately. Enjoy your Creamy Star Anise Irish Coffee!

Chai-Spiced Star Anise Negroni

chai spiced winter negroni cocktail

The Chai-Spiced Star Anise Negroni is a delightful winter twist on the classic Negroni cocktail, infusing it with warm chai spices and the distinctive flavor of star anise. This cocktail combines the bitterness of Campari, the sweetness of sweet vermouth, and the depth of gin, all enhanced with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and, of course, star anise. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a fireside sip, making it a unique choice for the winter season.

Ingredients Quantity
Gin 1 oz
Campari 1 oz
Sweet vermouth 1 oz
Star anise pod 1 pod
Ground cinnamon a pinch
Ground cardamom a pinch
Ice cubes for serving
Orange peel for garnish

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a mixing glass, combine the gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, star anise pod, ground cinnamon, and ground cardamom.
  2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir well until the mixture is chilled.
  3. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  4. Garnish with a twist of orange peel to enhance the aroma.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy your Chai-Spiced Star Anise Negroni!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.