Hot Spiced Cider

In a large saucepan combine cider and brown sugar. For spice bag, place cinnamon, allspice, cloves, and the orange peel in center of a double-thick, 6-inch-square of 100% cotton cheesecloth. Bring corners of the cheesecloth together and tie with a clean string. Add spice bag to the saucepan with cider mixture.

Bring mixture to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes. Remove spice bag and discard. If desired, serve cider in Apple Mugs. If desired, garnish with orange wedges and/or cinnamon sticks.

Apple Mugs: Cut the tops off of 8 very large apples (about 3 1/2- to 4-inches in diameter). Press 2 1/2-inch ice cream scoop into the cut surface of apple to to form and edge about 1/2 inch thick around the edges of the apples. Use a melon baller to scoop out the center of apples, taking care not to scoop out too close to the bottom and sides of apples. If desired, brush inside "mugs" with lemon juice to prevent browning.