Wash the orange well and slice it into thin rounds. Gather the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, ginger and nutmeg. Preparing everything first makes the cooking process simple and smooth.

Pour the fresh apple cider into a large saucepan. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, ginger and nutmeg. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to combine everything.

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Warm the cider until it becomes hot, but do not let it boil. Gentle heating helps the spices release their wonderful flavor without making the cider bitter.

Reduce the heat to low once the cider becomes hot. Let it gently simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and enjoy the beautiful apple, orange and cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen.

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract. Taste the cider carefully. Add a little more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter and richer drink.

Place a fine-mesh strainer over a large heatproof bowl or pitcher. Carefully pour the cider through the strainer. This removes the whole spices and orange pieces, leaving a smooth drink.

Pour the warm cider into heatproof mugs. Add a fresh apple slice or small cinnamon stick for garnish. Serve immediately while the drink is warm, fragrant and comforting.