Hocus Pocus Old Fashioned

1. Make the syrup: Combine 1/2 cup water, the honey, rosemary, cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon, and optional star anise in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat and boil for 2–3 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool. This makes enough syrup for about 6 drinks. 2. On a small plate, mix the coarse sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cayenne. Moisten the rim of your glass with a lemon wedge, then dip it into the sugar mixture. 3. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the cooled honey syrup to a cocktail shaker along with the bourbon, lemon juice, apple or pumpkin butter, and orange bitters. Add ice and shake well. 4. Strain into the prepared glass. Top with ginger beer if desired and garnish with cinnamon sticks. 5. For a mocktail, leave out the bourbon and use 1 tablespoon apple cider or sparkling apple cider plus 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract instead.