Step 1: Wash and core the apples. Roughly chop them into quarters or eighths. There's no need to peel them.
Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped apples and 8 cups of water. The water should just about cover the apples. Add the orange slices, if using.
Step 3: Place the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise pods, and allspice berries into a cheesecloth sachet or a large tea infuser. Add the sachet/infuser to the pot with the apples.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the apples are very soft and mushy. The longer it simmers, the more intense the apple flavor will be.
Step 5: Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully remove and discard the spice sachet/infuser. Using a potato masher or a large spoon, mash the apples directly in the pot. This will release more juice and flavor.
Step 6: Place a fine-mesh sieve or a colander lined with cheesecloth over another large pot or bowl. Carefully pour the apple mixture through the sieve, pressing down on the solids with a spoon or spatula to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the apple pulp.
Step 7: Stir in the brown sugar (or your preferred sweetener) into the strained apple cider until dissolved. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed. You can also add more spices if desired at this point by simmering them in a separate sachet for a few minutes.
Step 8: Serve the apple cider warm, garnished with a fresh apple slice or a cinnamon stick. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.