Hot Spiced Cider

8 cups apple cider or apple juice
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
6 inches stick cinnamon
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon shredded orange peel
8 thin orange wedges (optional)
8 whole cloves (optional)

In a large saucepan combine cider and sugar. For spice bag, place cinnamon, allspice, the 1 teaspoon cloves, and the orange peel in the center of a double-thick, 6-inch square of 100 percent-cotton cheesecloth. Tie closed with clean string. Add spice bag to the saucepan with cider mixture. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, if desired, stud orange wedges with cloves. Remove spice bag and discard. Serve cider in mugs. If desired, garnish with clove-studded orange wedges.