• Prepare the Spiced Cranberry Syrup: Prior to assembling the cocktail, ensure you have made the spiced cranberry syrup as per the recipe. Let it cool completely before using it in the cocktail.
• Build the Cocktail in the Spritz Glass: Add ice cubes to your chilled spritz glass, filling it about halfway.
• Layer the Ingredients: Begin by pouring 1 ounce of Aperol directly over the ice in the spritz glass. Follow this by adding 1 ounce of the prepared spiced cranberry syrup.
• Top with Prosecco: Slowly pour 3 ounces of prosecco into the spritz glass, allowing it to mingle with the Aperol and cranberry syrup.
• Add Club Soda: Gently pour 1 ounce of club soda into the glass to add a refreshing fizziness to the cocktail.
• Give It a Gentle Stir: Using a long stirring stick or spoon, gently stir the cocktail ingredients together, ensuring they combine while maintaining the drink's effervescence.
• Garnish and Final Touches: Finish the cocktail by garnishing it with an orange slice placed on the rim of the glass. For an extra aromatic element, add a cinnamon stick into the drink for a delightful scent.

Spiced Cranberry Syrup

• Rinse the cranberries under cold water. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, water, sugar, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
• Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a medium, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Simmer the mixture on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the syrup thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Remove the saucepan from the heat once the syrup reaches your desired consistency.
• Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a heatproof container or bowl, pressing down on the cranberries gently with the back of a spoon to extract the liquid. Discard the solids (cranberry pulp and spices).
• Let the spiced cranberry syrup cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
• Store the syrup in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 2-3 weeks.