If you have ever wished for a perfectly bite-sized version of a classic fast-food breakfast favorite, then this McGriddle Bites Recipe is your new best friend. These little pockets of joy combine fluffy, sweet pancakes with savory sausage and a touch of maple syrup, delivering that signature sweet-and-savory combination in every scrumptious bite. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast treat, a crowd-pleasing brunch appetizer, or a fun snack, these McGriddle Bites hit all the right spots with their tender texture, hint of cheese, and irresistible maple undertone.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delightful McGriddle Bites, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that work together like a dream. Each component adds its own magic, from the soft pancake base to the flavorful sausage and that unmistakable dash of maple syrup.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the batter, creating that soft, fluffy pancake texture.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bites rise up light and airy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the balance perfect.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and binds the ingredients together smoothly.
- 1 large egg: Provides structure and richness to the batter.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Introduces a subtle buttery flavor and tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the sweet notes.
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage (crumbled): The star savory ingredient; perfectly seasoned and adds a hearty bite.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Infuses the batter with that iconic McGriddle syrup sweetness.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Offers a melty, savory touch that elevates the flavor complexity.
- Oil or cooking spray for greasing: Essential for keeping the mini muffin pan non-stick and your bites perfectly shaped.
How to Make McGriddle Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin pan generously with oil or cooking spray so the McGriddle Bites will pop right out once baked without sticking or breaking apart.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of all dry elements and helps your bites rise evenly as they bake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creates the rich, flavorful liquid base that will make your McGriddle Bites delightfully tender and moist.
Step 4: Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing here—it’s okay if a few small lumps remain because overworking the batter can make the bites dense.
Step 5: Fold in the Sausage, Maple Syrup, and Cheese
Carefully fold in the crumbled cooked sausage, maple syrup, and if you’re using it, the shredded cheddar cheese. This step adds the heart of the McGriddle flavor profile and creates a wonderful mix of textures throughout each bite-sized treat.
Step 6: Fill the Mini Muffin Pan
Evenly scoop the batter into the mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full to allow space for rising. This helps achieve those perfectly puffed bites without overflow or under-baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the bites in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they become golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly before removing from the pan.
How to Serve McGriddle Bites Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, drizzle some warmed maple syrup over the bites just before serving. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a small pat of butter can also add a lovely finishing flair that’s sure to impress guests or satisfy your own cravings.
Side Dishes
Pair your McGriddle Bites with fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges to add a light, refreshing contrast. They also work beautifully alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a colorful veggie hash for a well-rounded breakfast plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the bites on a wooden serving board alongside small bowls of maple syrup, honey mustard, or spicy ketchup for dipping. Alternatively, stack them on a skewer for a fun breakfast kabob or serve with mini breakfast sandwiches for a playful brunch spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover McGriddle Bites keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them an excellent grab-and-go option for busy mornings when time is tight.
Freezing
You can freeze these bites easily by laying them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze individually before transferring to a ziplock bag. Stored this way, they can last for up to 2 months, preserving their flavor and texture wonderfully.
Reheating
To reheat, simply microwave the McGriddle Bites for about 20 to 30 seconds until warm, or pop them into an air fryer for a couple of minutes for a crispier exterior. Either method revives the delicious flavors in no time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in the McGriddle Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap breakfast sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative to suit your dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Is it necessary to include the cheese?
The shredded cheddar cheese is optional but highly recommended for a creamy, cheesy note that balances the sweetness perfectly. If you’re not a fan or have dietary restrictions, you can easily omit it.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend to make these bites gluten-free. Just keep an eye on the texture and adjust with a bit more liquid if needed.
How do I prevent the bites from sticking to the pan?
Generously greasing the mini muffin pan with oil or cooking spray is key. You can also use silicone muffin liners for easy removal. Allow the bites to cool slightly before trying to remove them.
Can these be made vegan?
With a few swaps, like using flax eggs, plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan sausage, you can make this recipe vegan-friendly, capturing the essence of McGriddle Bites while respecting your dietary choices.
Final Thoughts
Making the McGriddle Bites Recipe at home is a total game-changer. These little bites bring the joy of a classic McDonald’s breakfast to your table with fresh, homemade goodness, perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly they become a household favorite for breakfast or any time you crave something both sweet and savory.
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 16 mini bites
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These McGriddle Bites combine fluffy mini pancakes with savory breakfast sausage and a touch of maple syrup to create a perfect sweet and savory breakfast treat. Baked to golden perfection in a mini muffin pan, they are easy to make ahead and perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage, crumbled
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin pan with oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Flavorings: Gently fold in the crumbled cooked breakfast sausage, maple syrup, and shredded cheddar cheese if using, ensuring even distribution without overworking the batter.
- Fill Muffin Pan: Scoop the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin wells, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bites turn golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the McGriddle Bites to cool slightly in the pan before removing and serving warm with extra maple syrup for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian variation.
- These bites freeze well; reheat them in the microwave or air fryer for a quick and convenient breakfast.
