Add water and sugar to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat to dissolve sugar, stirring occasionally.
When the syrup is hot, add the cinnamon sticks and star anise. Remove the pan from the heat and cool completely. The spices will infuse the syrup while it cools.
Once cool, strain into a jar and store in the refrigerator. The flavored syrup will keep for 2 weeks.
Notes
This recipe yields about 1 ½ cup of syrup.
Unflavored simple syrup will keep for 3-4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Add syrup as a sweetener to coffee, tea, lemonade, or cocktails. Drizzle over fruit salad for added sweetness. Brush on pound cake for extra moisture and flavor.