After slicing the oranges, make small holes in the rinds with the tip of a knife and insert the cloves in them so that they don't float free in the cider.
In a 6 quart slow cooker, combine the cider, oranges, cinnamon sticks, star anise pods, and cloves. Cook on low for 4 hours.
Just before serving, add the brandy or keep it on the side.
Video
Notes
Please note that the nutritional information does not include the brandy.