The variations are endless, but here are some other delicious options to can add to this apple cider recipe. - 1 cup fresh cranberries - Sliced lemon (a citrus flavor with more tartness) - 1 to 2 inches of fresh sliced ginger - 1 star anise (for a licorice flavor) Feel free to experiment with these flavors. I always start with a half batch of cider when I'm experimenting with flavors, and then you can make a bigger batch when you are confident with your add-ins.