Add water and sugar in a small saucepan on medium-low heat and whisk together.
Add cinnamon stick and star anise and stir.
Bring to a simmer on medium-low heat for 4-5 minutes. Whisk frequently to make sure mixture does not burn.
Once sugar is completely dissolved and mixture turns slightly golden, remove from heat and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes. (Take great care not to overcook. The mixture should be thicker than water, but still liquid.)
Remove cinnamon stick and anise.
Strain with fine-mesh metal strainer into glass jar.
Store in a tightly sealed glass jar in the fridge for up to 1 month.
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