Hot Spiced Apple Cider (paleo, vegan)

4 cups (946 ml) apple cider or apple juice
2 large cinnamon sticks
3/4 teaspoon whole cloves
a couple whole allspice berries
skin of 1/2 a navel orange removed using a vegetable peeler fresh or dried
2-4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for vegan (might not be needed, depending on how sweet your juice is)
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg, plus more to sprinkle over top if desired
water if desired

In a small pot over medium-low heat add the apple cider, all the spices and the orange skin.
Slowly bring to a boil and then turn down to a very slow simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Remove from the heat and taste before stirring in the honey if needed and let sit to cool slightly if desired. If not, serve immediately, being sure to strain out all the spices and orange peel. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg over the top, if desired, and serve with a cinnamon stick.
You can also increase the recipe if desired and place in a crockpot on low for 4+ hours if desired. Any leftover hot apple cider can be strained to remove the flavorings and stored in the fridge to be reheated, or even frozen to drink another day or to use in baking.