1 1/4 c. sugar
1/2 c. water
12 oz. pkg. cranberries, about 4 c.

Combine the sugar and the water in a 1 1/2 quart microwave-safe dish. Add the cranberries. Cover with microwave-safe plastic wrap and vent 1 side. Microwave the cranberries on high, stirring after 4 minutes, until they are soft and have started to pop open, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the plastic wrap and continue cooking on high, stirring after 5 minutes, until the mixture has thickened, about 10 minutes. Let the sauce stand until it has cooled to room temperature.