Naughty Nice Margarita

1. To make the vanilla jalapeño honey syrup. In a pot, bring 1/2 cup water, the honey, jalapeños, ginger, and star anise to a gentle boil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat. Let cool, stir in the vanilla, then strain the syrup into a glass jar. This makes enough for 6-8 drinks. The longer you allow the jalapeños to sit, the spicier the syrup.
2. If desired, rim your glass with salt, then fill with ice.
3. Combine the tequila, orange liquor, lime juice, vanilla, and vanilla jalapeño honey syrup in a cocktail shaker. Shake well to combine, then fill with ice and shake for 1 minute. Pour into your prepared glass. Top with ginger beer and garnish with sugared cranberries, if desired.
4. To Make a Mocktail: omit the tequila and orange liquor. In their place, use 2 tablespoons of orange juice, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. 
Sugared Cranberries 
1. In a pot, bring 1/2 cup honey and 1/3 cup water to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat. Add 2 cups fresh cranberries. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Strain the cranberries, then add them to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Toss the cranberries with 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until all the cranberries are coated. Allow the cranberries to dry in a single layer for at least one hour.