✓ Rinse 12 ounces of fresh cranberries and place in a large saucepan.

✓ Combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water or orange juice in a separate bowl, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.

✓ Heat the saucepan over medium heat and bring the cranberries to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes.

✓ Pour the sugar mixture into the saucepan with the cranberries. Stir well to combine.

✓ Add the zest of 1 orange to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken slightly.

✓ If using ground cinnamon, add it now and stir well. Alternatively, you can reserve the whole cinnamon stick and simmer it in the mixture without breaking it up.

✓ For added complexity, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile. Stir gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

✓ Remove the saucepan from heat once the desired consistency is achieved. Skim off any foam or impurities that may have risen to the surface if necessary.