If you missed it, my 2026 resolution is a joyful one; I’m making one batch of cookies every single week this year.
I shared the full story — including why this resolution means so much to me — in my original post here:
👉 My 2026 Resolution: One Batch of Cookies a Week 🍪
This challenge is about joy, creativity, connection, and honoring memories — and I can’t imagine a better way to begin than with Week 1’s cookie.
Week 1: German Chocolate Cookies (For Grandpa)
For the very first week, it only felt right to choose a cookie that reminded me of my Grandpa Sauers.
German Chocolate Cake was one of his favorites.
Food was always joyful to him — and sharing food was an act of love. That was true of my Grandpa, and just as much of my Grandma (who I’m incredibly grateful is still with us). If you were lucky enough to sit at their table, you felt that love.
To kick off this series, I needed to start with a cookie that connected me back to him.
And I am so glad I did.
When Grief Shows Up Unexpectedly
One thing I’m learning is how sneaky grief can be.
This kind of loss is new to me, and it doesn’t always arrive the way I expect. Sometimes it shows up quietly, in the middle of something ordinary — like baking cookies.
As I was making these, I had a simple, familiar thought:
I can’t wait to take some to him.
And just as quickly as that thought appeared, it was replaced with the crushing reality that I will never get to do that again.
It stopped me in my tracks.
That moment was heavy, painful, and very real — and also part of why this resolution matters so much to me. I’m not baking to escape the sadness. I’m baking alongside it.
I’m hoping this weekly ritual becomes a joyful way to stay connected, even in the deep sadness. A way to honor memories, to feel close, and to let joy and grief exist in the same space.
Because sometimes love looks like cookies — even when the person you want to share them with is no longer here.
The Recipe I Used
This was a brand new-to-me recipe, and it was such a good choice for Week 1.
I used this exact recipe for German Chocolate Cookies:
👉 German Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Rich chocolate cookies topped with that classic coconut-pecan frosting — it truly felt like the flavors of German Chocolate Cake transformed into cookie form.
Would I make these again?
Absolutely.
The only change I’d make next time:
👉 I’d make sure to mix the egg yolks before adding them to the pot when making the frosting, just to ensure everything incorporates more smoothly.
Other than that, they were a total win.
The Taste Test Verdict 🍪
These cookies passed the most important test of all.
Matt, Elsie, Kel, and I all approve.
YUM.
They’re rich, indulgent, and meant to be shared — which somehow feels especially fitting for this challenge.
Follow Along for Weekly Cookies
Be sure to check back, or follow along on my socials below so you don’t miss it. This cookie series will include long-form videos, Shorts, Reels, and plenty of behind-the-scenes moments throughout the year.
If you want to keep up with each week of this cookie challenge, here’s where you can find everything:
- 📺 YouTube:
👉 Grocery Addict - 📸 Instagram (behind-the-scenes & updates):
👉 @jackieofallthings - 📘 Facebook:
👉 Intermittent Fasting Foodie - 📌 Pinterest (recipes pinned as they go live):
👉 Intermittent Fasting Foodie on Pinterest
As I share recipes, tools, and baking favorites along the way, anything I personally use and can link will always live here:
🛍️ My LTK Page
One Week In — And Already Worth It
Week one reminded me exactly why I chose this resolution.
It’s not just about cookies.
It’s about memories.
It’s about love.
It’s about allowing joy to exist alongside grief.
On to Week 2 🍪✨
And if you have a favorite cookie recipe you’d love me to try — and are okay with it being shared publicly — I’d love to hear from you.
Cheers to a joyful fast, and a joyful life 💛
