Sweet and savory, these McGriddle Bites are soft, pancake-style mini muffins loaded with smoky vegan sausage and a kiss of maple syrup. I love making them for a quick breakfast on the go or serving them warm at brunch—they’re always a hit. The perfect balance of cozy and convenient!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp sugar or sweetener of choice
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped cooked vegan sausage
Optional: 1–2 tbsp maple syrup for drizzling after baking
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, I mix the maple syrup, sugar, almond milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined—being careful not to overmix.
I fold in the chopped vegan sausage evenly.
Then I spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
I bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Once slightly cooled, I drizzle with extra maple syrup for that classic McGriddle finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 McGriddle Bites.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per bite: 95 kcal
Variations
I like customizing these bites depending on what I have on hand. Sometimes I use different plant-based sausages for more spice or smokiness. For a gluten-free option, I substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If I’m making these for kids, I might leave out the sausage or swap in finely chopped plant-based bacon. And for a fall-inspired version, I’ve added a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg with great results.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, I freeze them in a zip-top bag and just pop a few into the microwave for 20–30 seconds when I need a quick bite. To reheat in the oven, I warm them at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–8 minutes.
FAQs
How can I make these gluten-free?
I use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. It gives great results without changing the texture too much. Just make sure your vegan sausage is also gluten-free.
Can I use regular milk or eggs?
If I’m not strictly vegan, I can substitute dairy milk for the almond milk. Eggs can replace the applesauce (1 egg per 1/4 cup applesauce), though I prefer the lighter texture the applesauce gives.
What kind of vegan sausage works best?
I usually go with a smoky or maple-flavored vegan sausage. Brands like Beyond, Field Roast, or Gardein work well, but I chop them small for even distribution.
Can I make these in a regular muffin tin?
Yes, I’ve tried that too. I just increase the baking time to around 18–20 minutes and fill each cup about 3/4 full.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. I let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
Conclusion
These McGriddle Bites have become a staple in my kitchen—perfect for meal prepping, brunching, or those mornings when I just need something quick and comforting. The sweet and savory combo always hits the spot, and I love how easy they are to make with ingredients I already have. Once I try them, I’ll be making them on repeat!
Recipe:
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McGriddle Bites
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- Author: Sophia
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 bites
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Sweet and savory McGriddle Bites are soft, pancake-style mini muffins filled with smoky vegan sausage and a touch of maple syrup—perfect for breakfast on the go or cozy brunches.
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 tbsp maple syrup
1 tbsp sugar or sweetener of choice
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped cooked vegan sausage
Optional: 1–2 tbsp maple syrup for drizzling after baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the maple syrup, sugar, almond milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped vegan sausage evenly.
- Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly and drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired.
Notes
Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Use any plant-based sausage, ideally smoky or maple-flavored.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–8 minutes.
Can be made in a regular muffin tin—bake 18–20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
