Mulled Cider

I'm in unfocused mode, milling around the internets, and this recipe reminded me of the delicious cider cocktail with aromatic gins that I had last Sunday. Did I mention that it was delicious? Because it was. And the aromatic gins are HOMEMADE, people. Ginger and orange and clove and YUM CITY.

This one caught my eye because of the black pepper (and Alec should totally make a black pepper gin!) But where will I find star anise and allspice berries?

Oh wait, that's a rhetorical question. And J, if you're reading, do not try to get them before the bus tomorrow. Seriously.

1 gallon apple cider
10 whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, lightly crushed
2 strips orange peel, about 2 inches long
6 dried allspice berries
4 heads star anise
1 cinnamon stick
1 (1-inch) piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
Orange twists, for garnish

Combine apple cider with all other ingredients except orange twists in a large pot and stir well.

Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve cider in a heatproof mug, garnished with an orange twist.