A sweet sipper for a festive time of year.

Simmer, stirring, until sugar has dissolved and syrup turns clear.

Remove from the heat, and let cool.

Frosted Cranberry Kir Royale

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox

Reserve remaining simple syrup for another use.

Place remaining 1/4 cup sugar in a small bowl.

Roll each cranberry in sugar until completely coated, and transfer to a clean plate to set.

Thread 3 cranberries each onto 4 cocktail picks, small skewers, or toothpicks, and reserve for garnish.

Add 1/2 ounce creme de cassis and 1/2 ounce cranberry juice each to 4 Champagne flutes or coupes.

Divide the Champagne among the 4 glasses, garnish each glass with a cranberry cocktail pick, and serve.