McGriddle Bites

You know how some recipes just hit the spot? That’s exactly how I feel about these McGriddle Bites. It takes me back to the times when brunch was a leisurely affair, and you could indulge in sweet and savory without a hint of guilt. This little creation is inspired by those beloved breakfast sandwiches, but in a bite-sized format that’s perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself, if you’re feeling a little selfish. Each bite offers a delightful balance of fluffy pancake, savory sausage, and gooey cheddar, drizzled with maple syrup. You might even catch yourself sneaking a few from the tray before they ever make it to the table.

Here’s why I keep coming back to this

Why make these McGriddle Bites? First off, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just craving a tasty snack, these tiny morsels pack a punch of flavor. The combination of fluffy pancake batter with savory sausage and melted cheddar creates a delightful contrast in each bite. They’re not just snacks; they manage to be breakfast, lunch, or even a late-night treat—your choice. Plus, they bake in little muffin cups, so they come out uniformly adorable, ready for dipping. And let’s be honest, the controversial maple syrup is what makes it truly special. A touch of sweetness to enhance that savory goodness—it’s all about balance.

Gather these ingredients

To make these McGriddle Bites, you’ll need a few simple, yet key ingredients:

• 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix: The star of the show. It gives us that fluffy texture we all love without the fuss of measuring out flour and baking powder.
• 1 ½ cups water: To mix with the pancake mix, this creates that perfect batter consistency. Adjust a bit if you like your pancakes thicker or thinner.
• 1 lb breakfast sausage: This can be any brand or type you prefer. I usually opt for a mild or spicy version, depending on my mood.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Choose sharp for a bolder flavor or mild if you prefer something softer. Cheese is always a good idea.
• ¼ cup maple syrup: Real maple syrup if you can swing it; the flavor difference is noticeable. It adds that lovely binding sweetness to the batter.

Let’s get cooking

Alright, let’s walk through how to create these bites:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a mini muffin pan with a little non-stick spray or butter, so the bites pop out effortlessly.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage until it’s fully cooked. We’re aiming for a nice golden-brown color. Drain off any excess grease and set it aside—extra grease can lead to soggy bites.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix and water according to package instructions. Stir until well mixed, but don’t overbeat—it’s okay if a few lumps remain.
4. Now, fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and maple syrup. It should look and smell fantastic—the sweetness mingling with the savory sausage is what dreams are made of.
5. Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with your batter—no one likes overflow, but you want them hearty!
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until they are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. The smell will have you anticipating the first bite!
7. Let them cool for a moment before serving. Trust me; this is just enough time to work up an appetite.

What goes well with this

When it comes to serving, I like to keep it simple—these bites shine on their own but pair beautifully with a little extra maple syrup for dipping. You could also consider some fresh fruit on the side, because let’s face it, those juicy strawberries or a handful of raspberries create a fresh contrast. A side of crispy bacon never hurts, either. Feeling adventurous? Serve with a spicy sriracha drizzle for those who like to turn up the heat.

How to store and freeze

If you find yourself with leftovers—although I can’t argue if they disappear too quickly—here’s how to keep them fresh. Store the McGriddle Bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You’ll want to reheat them gently in the microwave or a toaster oven to maintain their lovely texture.

If you’ve got an abundance, freezing is a great option. They can be frozen for up to a month. Simply cool them completely, then place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before warming up.

Pro tips for success

• Choose a good quality sausage for these bites—it makes a noticeable difference.
• If you like a spicier kick, try adding some chopped jalapeños or hot sausage to the mix.
• Don’t skip the maple syrup in the batter—it provides just the right sweetness and moistness.

Creative twists

If you’re feeling experimental, there are plenty of ways to make these McGriddle Bites your own:

• Cheese Variations: Swap the cheddar for pepper jack or even crumbled feta for an interesting taste twist.
• Add Veggies: Chopped bell peppers or green onions can kick up the freshness in every bite.
• Swap the Meat: Consider using crumbled bacon or even a vegetarian sausage option if you’re looking for lighter alternatives.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 lb breakfast sausage
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup maple syrup

Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
2. Brown the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked and drain excess grease.
3. In a bowl, combine pancake mix and water according to the package instructions. Stir until mixed.
4. Fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and maple syrup until well combined.
5. Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the batter.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before serving with additional maple syrup.

Your questions answered

• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge overnight, but I recommend baking right before serving for the best texture.
• How do I reheat leftovers? Microwave for a few seconds, or pop them back in the oven briefly to crisp them up again.
• Can I use a different pancake mix? Sure! If you have a homemade mix or a different brand, feel free to substitute—it’ll still turn out great.
• What’s the best way to serve these at a gathering? Place them on a large platter and set out small bowls of maple syrup for dipping; it encourages sharing.
• Are these freezer-friendly? Yes, absolutely! They freeze wonderfully, both before and after baking.

Cooking isn’t just about the process—it’s about creating memories and moments around the table. These McGriddle Bites are perfect for gatherings or a simple family brunch. I encourage you to try your hand at them, experiment with flavors, and please share your results. We’re all in this kitchen journey together. From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking!

McGriddle Bites

These bite-sized McGriddle Bites are a delightful combination of fluffy pancakes, savory sausage, and gooey cheddar, drizzled with maple syrup, perfect for brunch or snacking.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 12 bites

Calories 155 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the McGriddle Bites

• 2 cups Hungry Jack Pancake Mix Provides that fluffy texture without the fuss of measuring out flour and baking powder.
• 1.5 cups water Mix with the pancake mix for perfect batter consistency.
• 1 lb breakfast sausage Choose any brand or type; mild or spicy varies by preference.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Opt for sharp for bolder flavor or mild for a softer taste.
• 0.25 cup maple syrup Use real maple syrup for better flavor, adds sweetness to the batter.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
• In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the breakfast sausage until fully cooked and golden-brown. Drain excess grease and set aside.
• In a bowl, combine pancake mix and water according to package instructions. Stir just until mixed; it's okay if a few lumps remain.
• Fold in the cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and maple syrup until fully combined.
• Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the batter.

Cooking

• Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool slightly before serving with additional maple syrup.

Notes

These bites shine on their own but also pair beautifully with fresh fruit or crispy bacon. For a twist, try adding sriracha for some heat or experimenting with different cheeses and veggies.

Keyword breakfast bites, maple syrup, McGriddle Bites, pancake snacks, sausage