High Protein McGriddle Bites Recipe
If you have a craving for the comforting sweetness and savory satisfaction of a McDonald’s classic but want a nourishing boost, these High Protein McGriddle Bites are exactly what you need. Crafted to bring that iconic sweet and savory flavor combo into a handy, protein-packed bite, this recipe elevates your morning with fluffy protein pancake batter, bold cheddar cheese, and hearty breakfast sausage, all kissed by sugar-free maple syrup. It’s a deliciously convenient way to fuel your day with flavor and protein in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your ingredients ready for these bites is straightforward and essential because each plays a crucial role in creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. From the robust taste of breakfast sausage to the wholesome punch of protein pancake mix and the rich gooeyness of cheddar, every component matters.
- Breakfast sausage (1 lb, cooked and cooled): Provides savory depth and a satisfying meaty bite that complements the sweet elements perfectly.
- Protein pancake mix (2 cups): The foundation for fluffy, protein-rich batter that holds everything together while adding extra nutrition.
- Water (1.5 cups): Needed to create the right batter consistency, ensuring light and tender texture.
- Sugar-free maple syrup (1/4 cup): Adds that classic McGriddle sweetness without extra sugar, balancing the savory ingredients.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar introduces a tangy creaminess that melts marvelously throughout each bite.
How to Make High Protein McGriddle Bites
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 12-cup muffin tin with either cooking spray or butter. This prep ensures your bites bake evenly and release easily once done.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, stir together your protein pancake mix and water until smooth and lump-free. This batter is the base that will carry all the delightful flavors, so getting a silky texture here makes all the difference.
Step 3: Add Sausage
Now gently fold in the cooked and cooled breakfast sausage. Cooling the sausage first is key to keep your batter from warming up too much, which could affect the texture of your bites later on.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Maple Syrup
Carefully fold in the shredded sharp cheddar and sugar-free maple syrup just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix; this keeps your bites tender and prevents toughness.
Step 5: Fill Your Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter evenly into each prepared muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full. This bit of breathing space allows your High Protein McGriddle Bites to rise beautifully without spilling over.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake your muffin tin for 18 to 23 minutes or until the bites are a lovely golden brown. A toothpick poked into the center should come out clean, signaling they’re perfectly cooked through.
Step 7: Cool Before Removing
Let your High Protein McGriddle Bites cool in the pan for five minutes before you take them out. This little patience prevents them from falling apart and keeps every bite intact.
How to Serve High Protein McGriddle Bites

Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or finely chopped chives atop your McGriddle Bites for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair your bites with fresh fruit like berries or a crisp green salad to add brightness and balance to this savory-sweet dish. A side of Greek yogurt can also amp up protein and creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your High Protein McGriddle Bites alongside mini breakfast sliders with leafy greens and avocado slices for a brunch spread that impresses. You can even skew them with small picks for easy, grab-and-go finger food at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your High Protein McGriddle Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They keep their texture and flavor well and make quick breakfasts or snacks.
Freezing
To freeze, place the bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months, ready for a nutritious meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated bites in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This revives their moistness and keeps the cheesy goodness melty.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative if you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before mixing it in.
Is there a substitute for the sugar-free maple syrup?
You can use regular maple syrup or honey if sugar isn’t a concern, but use sparingly to keep the sweetness balanced.
Can I make these bites without cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheddar cheese, though it does add great flavor and moisture. Consider adding a little extra syrup or even some mashed banana for moisture if you skip the cheese.
What if I don’t have protein pancake mix?
You can use regular pancake mix, but the protein content will be lower, and the texture slightly different. Adding a scoop of protein powder can boost the protein level.
How long do these bites last for meal prep?
They stay fresh in the fridge for 4 days, making them ideal for busy mornings when you want something easy, filling, and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for High Protein McGriddle Bites is a game changer for anyone craving a sweet and savory breakfast packed with protein and flavor. Easy to prep, delicious to eat, and perfect for meal prep, these bites will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to share this little breakfast secret with everyone you know.
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High Protein McGriddle Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 McGriddle Bites 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
High Protein McGriddle Bites are a delicious and convenient breakfast option that packs a protein punch. Combining savory cooked breakfast sausage, protein-rich pancake mix, sharp cheddar cheese, and sugar-free maple syrup, these bites mimic the beloved McGriddle flavor in a healthier, high-protein form. Perfect for meal prep or a grab-and-go morning meal.
Ingredients
Protein Pancake Batter
- 2 cups protein pancake mix (such as Kodiak Cakes)
- 1.5 cups water
Sausage Mixture
- 1 lb breakfast sausage (cooked and cooled)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
- 1/4 cup sugar-free maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to ensure the McGriddle bites don’t stick during baking.
- Prepare Pancake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein pancake mix with water according to the package instructions (for Kodiak Cakes, combine 2 cups mix with 1.5 cups water) and mix until smooth.
- Add Sausage: Fold the cooked and completely cooled breakfast sausage into the pancake batter. Cooling the sausage prevents the batter from becoming too warm and affecting texture.
- Incorporate Cheese and Syrup: Gently fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and sugar-free maple syrup until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough bites.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling about 3/4 full to allow space for rising without overflowing.
- Bake: Bake the bites for 18-23 minutes until golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool: Let the bites cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing them carefully to prevent crumbling or falling apart.
Notes
- Ensure the cooked breakfast sausage is fully cooled before mixing to maintain proper batter consistency.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a richer flavor that complements the sausage well.
- Sugar-free maple syrup helps keep the bites lower in sugar while providing classic McGriddle sweetness.
- These bites can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving for a warm, satisfying breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 McGriddle Bite
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: High protein breakfast, McGriddle bites, sausage breakfast recipe, protein pancake bites, sugar-free maple syrup, easy breakfast, meal prep breakfast