After last-minute shopping at two malls and a side trip to find wrapping paper only to come home and discover you’ve run out of Scotch tape, nothing makes the holidays happier than a good stiff drink.

Muddle the cinnamon sticks until broken. In a saucepan, combine the cinnamon, water and sugar, and bring just to a boil. Simmer for 3 minutes, remove from heat and cover. Set aside for at least 3 ...