Name: High Protein McGriddle Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and cooled; 2 cups protein pancake mix (such as Kodiak Cakes); 1.5 cups water; 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for a breakfast snack that marries the nostalgic, sweet-savory comfort of McDonald’s classic but with a solid protein punch, then you absolutely have to fall in love with these High Protein McGriddle Bites. These delightful morsels bring together fluffy protein-packed pancake batter, perfectly seasoned sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and just the right hint of sugar-free maple syrup to give you that iconic McGriddle flavor with a nourishing twist. Whether you’re rushing out the door or craving a weekend brunch treat, these bites will satisfy your cravings and keep you energized for hours.

High Protein McGriddle Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity yet bold layering of flavors. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the protein boost of the pancake mix to the savory richness of the sausage and sharp cheddar, complemented by the sweetness of the sugar-free syrup. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

1 lb breakfast sausage: Cooked and cooled for tender, savory pockets of flavor.
2 cups protein pancake mix: Using something like Kodiak Cakes adds texture and that essential protein lift.
1.5 cups water: To create the perfect pancake batter consistency.
1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup: Adds sweetness without extra sugar to balance the savory elements.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for a delightful tang and melty texture.

How to Make High Protein McGriddle Bites

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to ensure your High Protein McGriddle Bites come out perfectly and don’t stick. This prep step will save you frustration later.

Step 2: Mix the Protein Pancake Batter

In a large bowl, combine the protein pancake mix with water following the package instructions. For example, with Kodiak Cakes mix, stir the two until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps—this creates the fluffy base of your bites.

Step 3: Add the Sausage

Once your breakfast sausage is fully cooked and cooled to room temperature (very important to keep the batter from getting warm), crumble it into the batter. This step infuses savory goodness into every bite.

Step 4: Fold in Cheese and Maple Syrup

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar and sugar-free maple syrup. The cheese adds gooey richness, while the syrup provides that classic McGriddle sweetness, creating a perfect harmony. Be careful not to overmix here to keep your bites tender.

Step 5: Portion and Bake

Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. This allows space for the batter to rise and develop that coveted golden crust. Pop the tin in the oven and bake for 18 to 23 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Remove

Let your High Protein McGriddle Bites cool for around 5 minutes in the muffin tin before gently removing them. This cooling period helps them set up so they won’t fall apart when you take them out, giving you perfectly shaped bites every time.

How to Serve High Protein McGriddle Bites

Garnishes

Enhance presentation and flavor by topping your bites with a light drizzle of additional sugar-free maple syrup or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar right before serving. Fresh herbs like parsley can add a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These bites pair beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a bright contrast and extra vitamins. A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side works wonders to add creaminess and balance the savory notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your High Protein McGriddle Bites stacked on a skewer as a breakfast kabob, or place them on a platter alongside mini jars of syrup and honey mustard for dipping. They’re also fantastic chopped and added to hearty breakfast bowls with greens and avocado.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, store your bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days, making them an excellent grab-and-go option for busy mornings.

Freezing

If you want to stretch your batch longer, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months and thaw quickly when needed.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your High Protein McGriddle Bites in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Microwaving works for convenience but may soften the edges.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can swap breakfast sausage for turkey sausage or even plant-based alternatives. Just be sure it’s cooked and cooled before mixing to maintain the right texture in your bites.

Is there a substitute for the protein pancake mix?

While protein pancake mix gives these bites their signature texture and nutrition, you can experiment with regular whole wheat pancake mix. Just note the protein content and texture will vary slightly.

Can I make these bites gluten-free?

Yes, if you use a gluten-free protein pancake mix and ensure the sausage is gluten-free, your High Protein McGriddle Bites will be safe for gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.

What if I don’t have sugar-free maple syrup?

You can use regular maple syrup, honey, or even a sugar-free pancake syrup substitute. Keep in mind regular syrups will add more sugar, so adjust according to your dietary needs.

How long do these bites stay fresh once refrigerated?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay delicious for up to four days. Beyond that, their texture may start to decline, so freezing is a better option for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These High Protein McGriddle Bites are seriously a game changer when it comes to breakfast. They take all the things we love about a classic McGriddle and lift them up with hearty protein and wholesome ingredients that fuel your day the right way. Whether you’re preparing ahead for busy mornings or serving a special weekend treat, you’ll find these bites quickly become a household favorite — so go ahead, give this recipe a try and savor every flavorful, protein-packed bite!

High Protein McGriddle Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 28 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 McGriddle bites 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A delicious and healthy twist on the classic McDonald’s McGriddles, these High Protein McGriddle Bites pack a protein punch with breakfast sausage, protein pancake mix, sharp cheddar cheese, and sugar-free maple syrup. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast that keeps you full longer.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb breakfast sausage, cooked and cooled
2 cups protein pancake mix (such as Kodiak Cakes)
1.5 cups water
1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Prepare Pancake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein pancake mix with water according to package instructions until the batter is smooth.
Add Sausage: Fold the cooled, cooked breakfast sausage into the batter. Ensure the sausage is completely cooled to avoid warming the batter too much.
Mix Cheese and Syrup: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sugar-free maple syrup. Mix until just combined to keep the bites tender.
Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about 3/4 full to allow the bites to rise without overflowing during baking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-23 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the McGriddle bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing to prevent them from falling apart. Serve warm with additional sugar-free maple syrup if desired.

Notes

Make sure the breakfast sausage is completely cooled before adding to the batter to avoid a runny consistency.
Do not overmix the batter once cheese and syrup are added to maintain tender bites.
Can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Using sharp cheddar cheese enhances flavor but you can substitute with any preferred cheese.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American