If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying all the flavors of a classic fast-food breakfast sandwich in a single, irresistible poppable bite, these McGriddle Bites will steal your heart (and probably your breakfast rotation, too). The sweet maple pancake base, the savory punch of sausage and cheddar, and that gentle drizzle of maple syrup over the top come together in a way that feels both comforting and a little bit magical. Whether you’re serving a hungry crowd or stashing a batch in the freezer for hectic mornings, you’ll love how these McGriddle Bites take everything you adore about a hearty breakfast and wrap it up in mini, muffin-sized perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in McGriddle Bites is chosen for a reason, bringing something special to the table. These simple staples work together to deliver layers of flavor, the perfect texture, and that signature balance of sweet and savory.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives your bites their soft, tender crumb.
- Sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness that pairs so well with the sausage and maple flavors.
- Baking powder: Your leavening hero, making each bite delightfully light and fluffy.
- Salt: Just enough to enhance every other ingredient and heighten the flavor.
- Milk: Brings the batter together and ensures your bites aren’t dry.
- Large egg: Adds richness and helps bind everything into a batter that bakes up beautifully.
- Maple syrup: The soul of McGriddle Bites, infusing every bite with signature maple warmth—don’t skimp!
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and adds a bakery-style aroma.
- Cooked breakfast sausage, finely chopped: Salty, savory, and full of heartiness; try mixing with bacon for a fun twist.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into savory pockets that contrast perfectly with the sweet pancake batter.
- Unsalted butter or oil for greasing: Keeps your mini muffins from sticking and adds a hint of richness.
How to Make McGriddle Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, generously grease a mini muffin tin with butter or oil. This step ensures your McGriddle Bites pop out easily after baking with those gorgeous, golden edges intact.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a roomy mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This not only distributes the leavening but prevents clumps, setting you up for soft, even bites that rise just right every time.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, large egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. This fragrant blend soaks the batter in flavor, guaranteeing that each McGriddle Bite has that signature brunch-time aroma.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour your wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Stir gently—just until combined! A few lumps are perfectly okay. Over-mixing is the enemy here; you want these bites tender, not tough.
Step 5: Fold in Sausage and Cheese
Gently fold in the chopped breakfast sausage and shredded cheddar cheese, making sure they’re evenly scattered throughout the batter. This is where your McGriddle Bites get their irresistible sweet-and-savory punch.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared mini muffin tin, aiming to fill each cup about three-quarters of the way full. Pop the tin into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bites are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Let the bites cool for a minute or two, then loosen them gently from the tin. Arrange on a platter and drizzle lightly with extra maple syrup. Serve warm and enjoy the oohs and aahs from your lucky taste-testers!
How to Serve McGriddle Bites
Garnishes
If you’re anything like me, presentation is half the fun! Try a warm drizzle of maple syrup for that glossy, bakery-style finish. For a savory flair, sprinkle a little chopped fresh chive or scatter a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving—pure wow factor.
Side Dishes
McGriddle Bites are divine on their own, but you can really round out your breakfast spread with a bowl of fresh fruit, crispy hash browns, or some creamy scrambled eggs. Their portable size also makes them perfect for brunch buffets or breakfast-for-dinner nights.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful! Pile a batch into a cute basket lined with a tea towel for a brunch table centerpiece. Pack a few McGriddle Bites in lunchboxes or portable snack containers for a breakfast-on-the-go treat. For parties, offer mini skewers and shot glasses of maple syrup for dipping—or stack bites onto toothpicks with fruit for DIY breakfast kebabs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extras? No problem! Cool your McGriddle Bites to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. They reheat beautifully, making your future self very happy indeed.
Freezing
One of my favorite things about McGriddle Bites is how freezer-friendly they are. Flash-freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months and are ready whenever you need a quick, hearty breakfast.
Reheating
For the tastiest results, reheat refrigerated or frozen McGriddle Bites in the microwave for 15 to 30 seconds, or in a 350°F oven for about 6 minutes. They come out warm, fluffy, and ready for a fresh drizzle of maple syrup!
FAQs
Can I use bacon instead of sausage in McGriddle Bites?
Absolutely! Swap in equal amounts of cooked, chopped bacon—or use a combination of both for a fun flavor mix. Just make sure whatever protein you choose is cooked and well-drained before adding to the batter.
Can McGriddle Bites be made gluten-free?
You can! Use your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Just check that your baking powder and sausage are also gluten-free, and you’re set for a gluten-friendly batch.
What type Breakfast
Cheddar is classic for that sharp, melty goodness, but feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even pepper jack for a little spice. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts easily for the best texture.
Can I double the recipe?
Without a doubt! This recipe doubles (or even triples) with ease. Use additional mini muffin pans or bake in batches, and keep your kitchen stocked with McGriddle Bites all week long!
Will regular muffin tins work if I don’t have a mini one?
You can use a standard muffin tin, but adjust the baking time (bake a bit longer, checking at 16-18 minutes). The bites will be larger—more like McGriddle muffins—but equally delicious!
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly joyful about making a batch of McGriddle Bites and watching them disappear from the breakfast table in record time. Give them a try—you might just find a new family favorite that’ll bring smiles (and a touch of maple magic) to your mornings!
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 mini bites
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These McGriddle Bites are a delightful twist on the classic pancake breakfast sandwich. Perfectly portioned into mini muffins, they are savory, sweet, and packed with flavor in every bite. Ideal for busy mornings or as a tasty brunch addition, these mini breakfast treats are sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (plus more for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine milk, egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined.
- Add Sausage and Cheese: Fold in chopped sausage and shredded cheese.
- Bake: Spoon the batter into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then drizzle with maple syrup and serve warm.
Notes
- You can swap sausage for cooked bacon or use a mix of both.
- These are freezer-friendly—just reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped chives for extra flavor.
