M&M Oatmeal Bars in a Jar

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup mini M&M's candies
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed*
1 cup buttermilk biscuit baking mix
1/2 cup dark brown sugar, packed*
1 cup buttermilk biscuit baking mix

In 1-quart wide-mouth glass jar, gently layer and pack ingredients in the order listed, beginning with oats. If there is any space left after adding the last ingredient, add more M&M candies to fill the jar. Place lid on top. Cut an 8-inch circle of fabric to cover the lid. Place fabric over lid; secure in place with ribbon of raffia. Decorate as desired.

Make gift card to attach as follows:

M&M Oatmeal Bars:

Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Empty contents of jar into medium bowl. Stir in:

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Press into an 8-inch square baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until bars are light golden brown and center is almost set. Makes 16 bars.

*After measuring the brown sugar, crumble it between your fingers for uniform texture. Be sure to pack the brown sugar firmly in the jar to prevent the baking mix from sifting down through it.