I’m happy to report that I have not broken my New Year’s Resolution for 2026 to bake one batch of cookies each week. Two weeks in and so far, so good… or shall I say delicious? 🍪
This challenge has already become more than just baking. It’s something I genuinely look forward to each week — a small, meaningful ritual that brings comfort, creativity, and connection.
Another Special Inspiration
My second cookie was inspired by my Grandma Sauers. She is the wife of my Grandpa Sauers, who passed away right before Christmas. She is the other half of that beautiful duo, and I love her just as much as I love my Grandpa.
The duck cookie jar I use each week is from both of them — a shared gift, a shared memory — which makes this challenge feel even more special.
Grandma always says that all cookies are her favorite, so choosing just one wasn’t exactly easy. I had to rely on my mom’s memories, and she immediately remembered that Grandma often made Molasses Crinkle Cookies when she was a child. That made the decision simple.
It felt like the perfect cookie to make for her.
As an added bonus, I’m visiting Grandma and was able to bring her both German Chocolate Cookies and these Molasses Crinkles. Baking them felt like a small act of love — one that connects generations through something simple and sweet.
Molasses Crinkle Cookies
These cookies are soft, warmly spiced, and coated in a crackly sugar crust. They feel nostalgic in the very best way. I didn’t remember these, but the smell coming out of the oven was very familiar!
One note, if you choose to make these, is plan ahead! It’s a recipe where the dough is to chill for at least 2 hours. You’ve been warned 🙂
I linked to the recipe I found on Pinterest. My deviation came at the end. I followed the instructions my mom remembered; rolling the entire ball in sugar and pressing with a glass. Of course I had to be like my Grandma!
Why This Resolution Matters
I’m surprised by just how much joy this simple resolution has already brought me.
Baking these cookies has given me a gentle, joyful way to think about Grandpa — to use the cookie jar, to remember him, and to talk about him. The conversations sparked by that first batch of cookies brought unexpected comfort and connection, and this second week has only deepened that feeling.
This challenge isn’t about perfection or pressure. It’s about slowing down, honoring memories, and finding joy in small traditions.
Two weeks in, I can confidently say: I’m loving this resolution — and I can’t wait to see where the next batch takes me. 💛🍪
