Sugar Bear Squares
Sweet and crunchy sugar bear squares combine crispy cereal, melted marshmallows, and optional peanuts for a nostalgic treat perfect for kids and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add marshmallows; stir until melted.
- Remove from heat.
- Add cereal and peanuts; toss to coat well.
- Press firmly into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Chill for 1 hour.
- Cut into squares.
- Store in a cool place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, check that your cereal is certified gluten-free. You can also mix in other nuts or dried fruits to customize the squares to your liking. If you want a bit of crunch, try adding some crushed pretzels or use a nut butter instead of margarine.
Serving Suggestions
These squares make a delightful treat for parties or as an afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with Abigail Adams' Champagne Punch for a festive gathering. For a fun dessert platter, consider serving them alongside the refreshing Mandarin Orange And Onion Salad, which adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Sugar Bear Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a warm climate, you may want to refrigerate them to prevent them from getting too soft. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Bear Squares contains roughly 341 calories, with 4g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cereal for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Super Golden Crisp cereal gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with any puffed or crispy cereal. Just keep in mind that using a cereal with a different sweetness level may change the overall taste of the squares.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make the Sugar Bear Squares vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter alternative and use vegan marshmallows. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat that fits within vegan recipes without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make these squares more festive for holidays?
You can add holiday-themed sprinkles or mix in seasonal ingredients like mini chocolate chips or dried cranberries. For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted white chocolate on top before cutting them into squares. This adds both flavor and visual appeal for any celebration.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).