Rinse 12 ounces fresh cranberries and discard any soft or damaged ones
Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a saucepan
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat
Add the cranberries to the boiling syrup
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes
Stir occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens
Remove from the heat
Stir in optional flavorings such as orange zest, cinnamon, or a pinch of salt
Let the sauce cool to room temperature
Refrigerate until chilled before serving