Lisa's Jean Bars Recipe

Indulge in these irresistible Lisa's Jean-Tightening Bars – a family-favorite dessert so delicious, they're guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! This make-ahead recipe features a buttery shortbread crust, a rich and creamy filling, and a delightful frosting. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these bars are easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready for rave reviews!

Prep Time 20 mins

Cook Time 45 mins

Calories 209.1 kcal

Protein 4g

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The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Lisa's Jean Bars

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted margarine
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ cups granulated sugar
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½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2-4 tablespoons milk

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How to Make Lisa's Jean Bars

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cut 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted margarine into 2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
While the crust cools, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine 8 ounces cream cheese (softened), 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Pour the filling evenly over the partially baked crust.
Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
Let cool completely in the pan before frosting.
For the frosting: In a small bowl, beat together ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened), 2 cups powdered sugar, and 2-4 tablespoons milk until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach desired consistency.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting and serving to allow the bars to set completely.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

85g

Fat

15g

Carbs

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Preparation Desserts Oven Cookies And Brownies Bar Cookies Dietary Equipment Number Of Servings

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Lisa's Jean Bars?

Lisa's Jean Bars takes about 65 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Lisa's Jean Bars?

Lisa's Jean Bars has approximately 209.1 calories per serving, with about 4 g protein, 9 g carbohydrates and 16 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Lisa's Jean Bars?

The key ingredients for Lisa's Jean Bars are Margarine, All Purpose Flour, Sugar, Graham Cracker Crumbs, Chocolate Chips, Baking Powder. See the full list with measurements above.