Gather your ingredients: fresh apple slices, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and a citrus fruit like lemon or orange.
Combine the apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus zest in a large heavy-bottomed pot, then pour in the water.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, letting the flavors meld as the liquid warms and begins to bubble softly.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally and enjoying the fragrant aroma filling your kitchen.
Remove the pot from heat and strain the cider through a fine sieve or strainer into a clean container, pressing gently to extract all the flavorful juices.
Pour the hot, clear cider into mugs, squeeze in a little fresh citrus juice if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the warm, inviting flavors.