1-First, blend 1 (12 ounce) bag of fresh cranberries with 3 cups water on high until the mixture is smooth and deep red in color.

2-Next, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove any solids.

3-Then, stir in ½ cup honey until it’s fully dissolved for sweetness.

4-After that, add 3 sprigs fresh thyme and 1 inch fresh ginger to the pitcher and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors infuse.

5-Be sure to remove the thyme and ginger before using the infused water.

6-For the cocktail, fill a glass with ice, add 3 ounces of the cranberry infused water, 2 ounces fresh orange juice, 1 ounce elderflower liqueur, and 1 ounce vodka, then stir to combine.

7-Garnish with an orange slice and star anise if you like.

8-For the mocktail, follow the same steps but omit the liqueur and vodka just add the infused water and orange juice over ice and garnish as desired.

9-Serve immediately for the best taste, and remember you can adjust based on what you have.