Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to the boiling point, so it bubbles gently, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer to let the flavors blend, for about 10 minutes. Strain to remove spice sticks and peel, then serve warm. Goes well with pumpkin bread.
Some people consider cider sweet enough by itself.
But if you like a sweeter drink, add either of these sweeteners. Making pumpkin puree Wash the pumpkin, cut off any blemishes, and cut in half. Place pumpkin halves in a baking pan, cut side down, in about half an inch of water to prevent the edges from scorching. Bake at 325 degrees until tender, usually about an hour. You can stick it with a metal fork to test if it's soft yet.