Step 1: Prepare Ingredients : Rinse the cranberries under cold water and discard any soft or shriveled ones. Zest one or two oranges to get about 1 tablespoon of zest. Then juice them to get about ½ cup of orange juice.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients : In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, water, and salt. Stir to mix everything together before heating.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce : Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to pop and break down, thickening the sauce naturally.

Step 4: Add Optional Flavors : If using, stir in cinnamon and vanilla extract toward the end of cooking. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed — you can add a tablespoon of sugar or honey for a sweeter flavor.

Step 5: Cool and Set : Remove the pan from heat and let the sauce cool at room temperature. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools. Transfer to a serving dish or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve.