Pecan Chewies in a Jar

I needed a quick birthday gift--by quick I mean something that I could make at home! I'm also testing some Christmas gift ideas. So out came my Cookies in a Jar Cookbook by Jackie Gannaway. It is dated 1997. Mason Jars are trendy now--check Pinterest--I guess this book was before it's time, it is 15 years old. But age matters not, I layered a Jar and it was beautiful; then I baked a jar. I was not about to give away a cookie mix that wasn't delicious! I'm happy to say this recipe was a winner. I think it would be a good idea to always have a jar or two made. They could be used for unexpected birthday or hostess gifts. The lady I'm giving it to has Grandchildren that visit often--this would be a perfect activity. Kids would love making these cookies.
There are 26 recipes in the book. I made Pecan Chewies--you can too!

Pecan Chewies in a Jar
In a clean wide mouth quart size canning jar layer the following ingredients in the order given. Using a Tart Tamper compress each layer, this is a must. If you don't follow this step all the ingredients will not fit in the jar. Let's layer:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (3.5 ounces), yes I do weigh my brown sugar. I found I was using a heavy hand at the 'firmly packing' step. Cooking by weight has improved my baked goods
1 1/4 cup old fashioned oats
3/4 cup finely chopped pecans
1 cup crisp rice cereal (this also got packed down a little)
3/4 cup flour mixed with 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Cover with a clean lid--top with a fun tag and instructions.
To make cookies, in a large bowl mix together 1 square very soft butter, 1 beaten egg, 1 tablespoon vanilla. Add contents of the jar and mix. You will need to finish mixing with your hands!
Using a medium Pampered Chef Cookie scoop put dough ball on parchment lined cookie sheets. Bake at 350 for 12 minutes or until edges are lightly brown. The recipe makes about 2 1/2-3 dozen cookies.
 I couldn't help myself--I did drizzle some of the cookies with white chocolate. They were both delicious. These will be part of my Christmas gifts this year. I will make them a week or so before Christmas. They are best used within about a month. They can be stored longer--the brown sugar may harden a little. Enjoy. These are a fun treat!