Start by rinsing your cranberries under cold water. If you’re using fresh cranberries, remove any stems or blemished berries. Measure out your sugar, water, orange juice, and zest.
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of orange juice, and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
Once the sugar is dissolved, add the 12 ounces of cranberries, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, the cinnamon stick, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries popping and releasing their natural juices, creating a lovely sauce.
After simmering, use a wooden spoon to gently mash some of the cranberries against the side of the pot to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.
Transfer the cranberry sauce to a serving bowl or a storage container. If you're serving it warm, it's ready to go! If you prefer it chilled, let it cool completely before refrigerating.
