Step 1

Pour apple cider into a 2.5-quart or larger Crock Pot or other slow cooker. Add cinnamon sticks.

Step 2

With a toothpick, poke holes all around the orange, about 1/2 inch to 1 inch apart. Carefully poke the cloves into the toothpick holes in the orange.

Step 3

Place orange into the cider in the slow cooker.

Step 4

Cook on low until hot and spiced through, about 4 hours. Ladle into mugs along with an ounce or so of rum if using. Place a cinnamon stick in each glass if desired and serve.