Gingerbread Spiced Syrup

1. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine water and sugar (or other sweetener of your choice). Stir in ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice, nutmeg and peppercorns.

2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cover. Simmer for 30 minutes.

3. Let cool for 20 minutes, then strain through a fine mesh sieve, or double layer of cheesecloth to remove the ground nutmeg and peppercorns, etc. Store in glass jars.

4. Use to spice up coffee, tea, apple cider. Add a tablespoon to your favorite beverage, or use it in whipped cream, or brush it on muffins or cakes. Drizzle it on yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes. Simply wonderful!