Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I flipped through my favorite breakfast cookbooks one rainy Saturday morning, I stumbled upon a recipe that made my heart skip a beat—McGriddle Bites. These delightful mini muffins combine all the beloved flavors of a classic breakfast sandwich into a convenient, bite-sized treat. Imagine fluffy, pancake-like muffins filled with savory sausage and creamy cheddar, all ready in a flash! Perfect for busy mornings or lazy brunches, these freezer-friendly bites are a lifesaver, providing a wholesome breakfast option at your fingertips. Plus, the versatility of McGriddle Bites means you can customize them with your favorite add-ins, whether that be spicy jalapeños or sweet blueberries. Could there be a more tempting way to start your day? Let’s dive into the deliciousness! Why Are McGriddle Bites a Must-Make? Irresistible flavors: Each bite is a heavenly fusion of fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and rich cheddar, designed to delight your taste buds. Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time, and keep them in your freezer for quick breakfasts on busy mornings. Customizable and Versatile: Feel free to swap ingredients! Whether you prefer crispy bacon or want to experiment with blueberries, these bites adapt to your cravings. Quick and Easy to Prepare: In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious breakfast treat that your entire family will love. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These McGriddle Bites are perfect for brunch gatherings or family meals, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied! Want more breakfast ideas? Check out Mini Mcgriddle Bites for a delightful twist! McGriddle Bites Ingredients For the Muffins • Breakfast Sausage – Provides savory flavor and protein; substitute with turkey sausage or bacon for different variations. • Hungry Jack Pancake Mix – Acts as the base to ensure muffins are fluffy; any pancake mix that only requires water will work. • Water – Hydrates the batter for proper consistency; filtered or tap water is ideal. • Maple Syrup – Adds sweetness and enhances the muffin flavor; using pure maple syrup guarantees the best taste. • Cheddar Cheese – Contributes creaminess and richness; opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for better melting. Optional Add-Ins • Diced Jalapeños – Introduces a spicy kick; adjust the quantity to taste for a customized experience. • Blueberries – Offers a sweet and fruity contrast; can be added for a unique twist to your McGriddle Bites. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for McGriddle Bites Step 1: Preheat the Oven Start by preheating your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). While it warms up, grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal of your McGriddle Bites once baked. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust. Step 2: Cook the Sausage In a skillet over medium-high heat, add your breakfast sausage and cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes brown and crumbles nicely. Drain the excess grease, allowing the sausage to cool slightly before adding it to your muffin batter; this keeps the McGriddle Bites fluffy. Step 3: Mix the Batter In a large mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Stir gently with a spatula, mixing until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if the batter has a few small lumps—overmixing may lead to dense muffins. This batter serves as the delightful base for your McGriddle Bites! Step 4: Incorporate Sausage and Cheese Carefully fold in the cooled, cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese into the pancake batter. Ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture to give each McGriddle Bite a scrumptious taste with every mouthful. This is where the savory flavor truly begins to come together! Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin Using a spoon, fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the batter. This allows space for the muffins to rise as they bake while ensuring they maintain their delicious shape. Make sure to distribute the batter evenly across all cups to achieve consistent cooking. Step 6: Bake the Muffins Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is your indication that the McGriddle Bites are ready to enjoy! Step 7: Cool and Serve Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the McGriddle Bites cool for a few minutes. This cooling period makes them easier to remove. Serve them warm, optionally with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory in every bite! Expert Tips for McGriddle Bites Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light McGriddle Bites. Quality Cheese Matters: Use block cheddar cheese and shred it yourself for the best melting quality and flavor in every bite. Customize Your Flavors: Experiment with various add-ins like spicy jalapeños or sweet blueberries to create unique McGriddle Bites. Proper Cooling: Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin to avoid breaking apart. Storage Tips: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months for easy access. McGriddle Bites Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with these delightful McGriddle Bites; each variation will spark joy and flavor in your kitchen! Bacon Swap: Replace the breakfast sausage with crispy bacon for a smoky and savory twist. The rich taste of bacon adds a delightful crunch that elevates these bites to another level. Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage or a medley of sautéed vegetables for a tasty vegetarian alternative. This adds vibrant color and freshness, making your McGriddle Bites both healthy and delicious. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños directly into the batter for a burst of heat. You can control the spice level by adjusting the amount, ensuring it’s just right for your family’s taste buds. Fruity Flavor: Incorporate blueberries instead of savory ingredients for a sweet surprise. The combination of maple syrup and berries is truly unforgettable and perfect for brunch. Cheese Choices: Switch out cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its own texture and taste, making it easy to discover a new favorite! Sweeten the Deal: For a dessert-like touch, add mini chocolate chips or a flavored syrup to the mix. This unexpected twist can delight those with a sweet tooth, especially great for family gatherings. Whole Grain Base: Exchange the pancake mix for whole-grain or gluten-free options to make these bites healthier. This swap not only adds more fiber but can cater to dietary restrictions. Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by adding spices like garlic powder or fresh herbs such as chives or parsley. These small additions can bring freshness and an aromatic edge to your McGriddle Bites. For more mouthwatering inspirations, consider crafting these alongside my delightful Butter Chicken Bites or indulge in some crispy Funnel Cake Bites. Enjoy the journey of creating your unique version of McGriddle Bites! How to Store and Freeze McGriddle Bites Fridge: Keep cooked McGriddle Bites in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This makes them an easy grab-and-go breakfast option during the week. Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Enjoy them for up to 3 months. Reheating: To serve, microwave individual bites for 30-60 seconds or bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. Wrap for Freshness: If freezing, ensure each muffin is wrapped in plastic or foil to retain moisture and flavor, keeping your McGriddle Bites delicious! Make Ahead Options These McGriddle Bites are ideal for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, bake and cool the muffins, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, let them cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, and you’ll have delicious, homemade breakfast bites in no time! What to Serve with Savory McGriddle Bites? Elevate your breakfast or brunch spread with delightful pairings that complement the scrumptious flavors of McGriddle Bites. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing, sweet contrast to the savory muffins, brightening up each bite. Think juicy strawberries, tart blueberries, and refreshing melons. Greek Yogurt Parfaits: Creamy, tangy Greek yogurt layered with granola and honey enhances your breakfast’s texture and provides a healthy boost. This makes for a satisfying side that balances the richness of the muffins. Savory Breakfast Hash: A mix of diced potatoes, bell peppers, and onions sautéed to golden perfection offers a hearty, savory option alongside the sweet elements in each muffin. It’s a fantastic way to add variety to your meal. Crispy Bacon: Legendary at breakfast, crispy bacon perfectly complements the flavors of McGriddle Bites. The salty crunch balances the fluffy sweetness of the muffins, making every bite an indulgent treat. Classic Smoothie: Blend together bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious drink that refreshes your palate. The smoothie adds a cooling contrast and keeps your meal light and vibrant. Maple Syrup for Dipping: Don’t forget to serve warm maple syrup on the side for drizzling or dipping! The rich sweetness ties everything together and enhances the flavors of the McGriddle Bites, making for a delightful experience. McGriddle Bites Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best breakfast sausage for my McGriddle Bites? Absolutely choose a breakfast sausage that you love! Look for fresh or pre-packaged options without added fillers. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, turkey sausage works wonderfully too. How do I store McGriddle Bites for maximum freshness? To keep your McGriddle Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Lining the container with paper towels can help absorb any excess moisture to keep your muffins fluffy. Can I freeze McGriddle Bites, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze McGriddle Bites! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or wrap them individually in foil, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months! What should I do if my McGriddle Bites come out dense? If your McGriddle Bites are dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Remember, only mix until just combined, as small lumps are perfectly okay! This ensures a light and fluffy texture. Additionally, using too much liquid can also affect the density, so be sure to follow the measurements carefully. Are McGriddle Bites suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions? Yes! McGriddle Bites can easily cater to various dietary preferences. For gluten-free versions, use a gluten-free pancake mix. To accommodate dairy-free diets, opt for plant-based cheese and sausage alternatives. Always check individual ingredient labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs. How can I add more flavor variations to my McGriddle Bites? You can customize McGriddle Bites by incorporating various add-ins! For a spicy twist, add diced jalapeños or opt for sweet blueberries for a fruity contrast. Other creative options include swapping cheddar cheese for sharp white cheddar or even adding herbs like chives for an extra flavor boost. Savory McGriddle Bites: Easy Freezer-Friendly Breakfast Treats McGriddle Bites are delightful mini muffins that combine fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and creamy cheddar for a quick and delicious breakfast option. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 bitesCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Muffins1 pound Breakfast Sausage Substitute with turkey sausage or bacon if desired2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix Any pancake mix that only requires water will work1 cup Water Filtered or tap water is ideal1/4 cup Maple Syrup Using pure maple syrup guarantees the best taste1 cup Cheddar Cheese Opt for block cheese and shred it yourself for better meltingOptional Add-Ins1/4 cup Diced Jalapeños Adjust the quantity to taste1/2 cup Blueberries Add for a unique twist Equipment Mini muffin tinSkilletMixing bowlSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC) and grease a mini muffin tin.Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned.In a bowl, combine the pancake mix, water, and maple syrup. Mix until just combined.Carefully fold in the cooked sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with batter.Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Nutrition Serving: 1biteCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 6gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesThese McGriddle Bites are perfect for brunch or as a quick breakfast option. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
