If you’ve ever wished you could pop a McGriddle right into your mouth, let me introduce you to the magic of McGriddle Bites. These irresistible little breakfast gems combine the ultimate trio of flavors: fluffy pancake, savory sausage, and sweet maple syrup, all baked together in a perfectly portable, cheesy mini muffin. With just one batch, you’ll have a fun, handheld breakfast that’ll make your kitchen smell like a weekend treat and your mornings a whole lot happier. Whether you’re prepping for a family breakfast or snacking on-the-go, McGriddle Bites are truly a game-changer!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering everything you need for McGriddle Bites is easy, and each ingredient truly shines to create that iconic flavor and soft-yet-satisfying texture. With some pantry staples and a few key flavor boosters, you’ll enjoy a treat with just the right mix of sweet and savory.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bites, giving structure and a tender crumb.
- Baking powder: Lends a lovely lift and keeps every bite light and fluffy.
- Baking soda: Helps soften the crumb and balance flavors for a more pancake-like texture.
- Salt: Just a dash makes all the flavors pop and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Granulated sugar: Adds a faint sweetness that pairs so well with maple and sausage.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds rich flavor.
- Buttermilk: Delivers that classic pancake tang and a seriously moist bite.
- Milk: Loosens the batter for a smooth mix and tender bakes.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness so every bite is soft and flavorful.
- Vanilla extract: The subtle warmth it offers ties everything together.
- Cooked breakfast sausage crumbles: For that signature McGriddle Bites savory filling in each bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty pockets of cheese put these bites over the top.
- Maple syrup: The must-have sweet note that sets these apart from any ordinary muffin.
How to Make McGriddle Bites
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start this edible adventure by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s piping hot and ready to bake. Give a mini muffin tin a generous spritz of nonstick spray—this helps those delicious bites pop right out golden and fluffy, with no sticky surprises.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Blending these first ensures the leaveners and salt are evenly distributed, leading to no lumps and a better rise. Your McGriddle Bites will thank you!
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, vigorously whisk together your egg, buttermilk, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. The rich buttermilk adds tang while the maple syrup sets the breakfast mood—your kitchen probably already smells amazing!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine—over-stirring makes your bites dense rather than fluffy.
Step 5: Fold in Sausage and Cheese
Here comes the gold: fold in your cooked sausage crumbles and shredded cheddar. This step is where McGriddle Bites earn their signature balance—savory, cheesy, and so satisfying with a hint of sweetness.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. You’ll get 24 perfectly portioned bites. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes in the tin, then serve warm—preferably with extra maple syrup for dipping.
How to Serve McGriddle Bites
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, pour a small bowl of warm maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzle a ribbon of syrup right across the warm bites. A tiny sprinkle of extra cheddar or a shake of powdered sugar can add a little flair—and visual appeal never hurts!
Side Dishes
Round out your breakfast with a bowl of mixed berries, crisp hash browns, or some sliced, juicy oranges. These McGriddle Bites also pair well with scrambled eggs or a creamy yogurt parfait for a complete morning spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try threading McGriddle Bites on skewers for a grab-and-go treat at brunch parties! Or serve them on a platter with small cups of maple syrup for dipping (think breakfast fondue). For a lunchbox surprise or breakfast-for-dinner, pile them into a basket alongside napkins—they’re that easy to share.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, pack your McGriddle Bites into an airtight container and they’ll keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days—making weekday breakfasts or after-school snacks a dream. Just grab, reheat, and go!
Freezing
If you want to make a big batch, you’re in luck: these bites freeze wonderfully. Arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll last up to two months, so you’re never far from a breakfast treat.
Reheating
For best results, microwave McGriddle Bites for 20-30 seconds until warm, or pop them in the air fryer for a minute or two for a slightly crisp exterior. Don’t forget that maple syrup dip for extra joy!
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works just as well and brings a leaner twist while keeping all the delicious flavors and texture in your McGriddle Bites.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, swapping the all-purpose flour for your favorite 1:1 gluten-free baking blend will still yield fluffy, delightful McGriddle Bites. Just check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, too.
Can I add veggies or other mix-ins?
Go for it! Diced bell peppers, cooked mushrooms, or a pinch of chives are amazing additions. Just be sure not to overload the batter so your McGriddle Bites stay light and moist.
Do I need to use mini muffin tins?
Mini muffin tins are perfect for classic bite-sized pieces, but regular muffin tins work if you want larger snacks—just increase the baking time by a few minutes and check for doneness.
Can I make McGriddle Bites ahead for a brunch party?
Definitely! They’re perfect for prepping in advance since they store and reheat so well. You can even freeze and reheat the whole batch on the big day for fresh, easy serving.
Final Thoughts
With every bite of these homemade McGriddle Bites, you get all the warm, happy flavor of a favorite fast-food breakfast but with the joy of making them yourself. Try a batch—they’re sure to become a new family tradition for busy mornings and weekend celebrations alike.
Print
McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These McGriddle Bites are a delightful twist on the classic fast-food favorite, combining savory breakfast sausage, gooey cheddar cheese, and sweet maple syrup in convenient bite-sized muffins. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup cooked breakfast sausage crumbles
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, milk, melted butter, vanilla, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Combine both mixtures: Stir wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Add sausage and cheese: Fold in the sausage crumbles and cheddar cheese.
- Fill muffin cups: Divide the batter into mini muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Cool slightly and serve warm with extra maple syrup for dipping.
Notes
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or air fryer for a quick meal.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle with more maple syrup before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
