Step 1

Rinse the cranberries and put them into your 2 quart microwave safe bowl. Add the sugar and wine and stir to combine.

Step 2

Break the cinnamon stick in half. If it's very thick you may want to use a chef's knife. Add it and the star anise to the bowl.

Step 3

Cover loosely with a plastic microwave cover or paper towel and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Stir.

Step 4

Microwave for a final 3 minutes. Be sure to keep a loose cover on your bowl as the cranberries will foam up as they boil.

Step 5

Stir again and let the bowl cool at room temperature. Then refrigerate until cold, or overnight. Your mulled wine cranberry sauce can be made up to 4 days in advance. Pull out the whole spices before serving.

Step 6

The cranberry sauce will keep for up to a week in the refrigerator.