Pour 4 cups of apple cider into a saucepan
Add 1 cinnamon stick
Add 2 to 3 whole cloves
Add 1 to 2 orange slices, if desired
Add 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup, if desired
Heat over medium-low until steaming, not boiling
Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes
Remove from heat
Strain out spices and fruit, if used
Pour into mugs and serve warm