Hot Apple Cider

6 cups apple cider

1/4 cup real maple syrup

2 cinnamon sticks, plus 6 sticks for serving (optional)

6 whole cloves

6 whole allspice berries

1 orange peel, cut into strips

1 lemon peel, cut into strips

Directions

In a large stainless steel saucepan, combine apple cider and maple syrup.

Wash a square piece of cheescloth and place inside it: cinammon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange peel, and lemon peel. Fold up the sides of the cheesecloth and tie securely with kitchen twine. Add spice bundle to cider mixture.

Cook cider over medium heat 5 - 10 minutes, or until very hot. DO NOT BOIL.

Remove from heat. Discard the spice bundle. Pour cider into large mugs.

Garnish each mug with cinnamon stick, if desired.