Add filtered water to a 5-quart Dutch oven or heavy pot. Add apples, cranberries, cinnamon sticks, ginger and star anise to water and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 hours or until apples are very soft.
Mash apples and cranberries using a potato masher or large spoon. Continue to boil 1 hour longer.
Strain mixture into a large bowl and return to Dutch oven. Stir in cinnamon tea and honey. Ladle into mugs and serve hot.