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These Mini McGriddle Bites are your ticket to turning any morning into a cheery celebration. Fluffy pancake batter meets crispy sausage savory cheddar and a hint of maple syrup all baked into golden handheld bites. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy brunches they are as much fun to eat as they are to make
I first whipped these up on a school morning and my youngest declared them the best breakfast ever We now keep a batch in the freezer for hectic mornings
Ingredients
- Pancake mix: Choose a reliable brand with rich flavor for the right base I go for Hungry Jack because it turns out tender and fluffy every time
- Water: Use fresh cold water to avoid over mixing and keep the bites light
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded so it melts into every bit Sharp cheddar brings the best punch so pick a good block and shred it yourself for more flavor
- Maple syrup: Adds gentle sweetness and that signature griddle flavor Pure maple syrup is worth it if you can find it
- Breakfast sausage: Go for quality pork sausage with balanced seasoning Cook thoroughly and drain off the fat so the bites are not greasy
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Heat the oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Line two mini muffin pans with paper liners or grease them well so nothing sticks
- Mix the Pancake Batter:
- In a medium bowl combine pancake mix with cold water Stir by hand just until everything is barely moistened You should still see lumps for a tender bite
- Add Fillings:
- Fold in the cooked sausage cheddar cheese and maple syrup Gently mix so every bite catches a bit of everything Do not over mix or your bites might turn out dense
- Fill the Pans:
- Using a small spoon or scoop divvy the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups Fill each cup about three quarters full so they rise just right
- Bake:
- Slide the pans into the oven Bake for about fifteen minutes Check that the tops are lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean Let them cool a minute before popping out
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The gooey cheddar is always my favorite part I remember the first time my kids found the cheesy pockets inside their bites and the look of delight is one I will not forget These are now a birthday breakfast tradition at our house
Storage Tips
Mini McGriddle Bites store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days For longer storage freeze them on a sheet tray and then transfer to a bag They reheat beautifully in a low oven or the microwave so you can grab and go
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of cheddar try Monterey Jack or even a mild pepper jack for a gentle kick You can swap breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or even a vegetarian sausage crumble for a different protein Maple flavored syrup works in a pinch but pure maple gives richer results
Serving Suggestions
Pile these bites on a platter with a small bowl of warm maple syrup for dipping They also pair well with fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait My family likes them tucked into lunchboxes for a midday snack
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Recipe History
Inspired by a fast food favorite the original McGriddle these mini versions capture all the best flavors in a bite sized treat My grandmother always made sweet and savory breakfast breads so these feel nostalgic and new at once
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different sausage?
Yes, any breakfast sausage works well. Try turkey or plant-based varieties to suit your preference.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep cooled bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
- → Which cheese pairs best with these bites?
Cheddar provides a classic flavor, but mild or sharp varieties and even Monterey Jack or Colby work nicely.
- → Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze cooled bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen for convenience.
- → Is pancake mix required?
While convenient, you can use homemade pancake batter if preferred. Just keep consistency similar to the mix.
- → What's the best way to serve them?
Serve warm, optionally drizzled with extra maple syrup or alongside fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast spread.