Hot Spiced Apple Cider

1. Infuse the Cider with Spices

Pour 4 cups of fresh apple cider into a medium saucepan. Add one cinnamon stick, 4 whole black peppercorns, 3 whole dried cloves, and 1 star anise. Carefully remove the peel from a navel orange with a vegetable peeler and add it to the saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

2. Strain and Serve

Carefully strain the spiced cider into a 4-cup glass measuring cup to remove the solids. Then, pour the hot cider into mugs or heatproof glasses. Optionally, add 2 tablespoons of good bourbon to each mug for extra warmth. Garnish each drink with a slice of navel orange and a slice of crisp red apple. Place a cinnamon stick in each glass for stirring.