Step 1

Pour cider into a Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot ad turn burner to low and bring cider to just below a simmer.

Step 2

Wrap mulling spices in cheesecloth and add to the pot of cider. Add cinnamon sticks, sliced oranges, sliced apples, star anise pods and maple syrup and give cider a good stir. Cover pot and allow cider to cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on the cider as you don't want it to come to a boil. This shouldn't happen, however, with the burner on low.

Step 3

Remove and discard mulling spices and serve cider warm in mugs. Garnish cider with apple slices, cinnamon sticks and cranberries if desired.