01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Combine cranberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Let cool, then mash slightly with a fork to create a jammy texture.
03 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined.
04 - Beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large bowl until creamy and light. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
05 - Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips and chopped dried cranberries.
06 - Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Dollop 1/2 teaspoon of cranberry swirl onto each cookie mound. Use a toothpick or knife tip to gently swirl it into the dough.
07 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft.
08 - Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.