It started on a lazy Saturday morning. The kind where the house is still quiet, and the smell of coffee lingers in the kitchen. I was craving something nostalgic — something that reminded me of early morning drives and quick breakfast stops.
That’s when the idea hit me: a homemade McGriddle.
That sweet-and-savory combo? Iconic. The fluffy pancake buns with hints of maple, wrapped around smoky sausage, melty cheese, and a perfectly folded egg — it’s breakfast comfort food at its finest. But making it from scratch at home? That’s where the real magic happens.
It only took one bite to know this was going to be a weekend favorite.
Short Description
These Homemade McGriddles feature sweet pancake buns infused with maple syrup, layered with a savory sausage patty, fluffy scrambled egg, and melty American cheese — all in one handheld breakfast sandwich.
Key Ingredients
For the Pancake Buns:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for brushing)
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp maple syrup pearls or crystals for that authentic texture
For the Filling:
- 4 breakfast sausage patties
- 4 large eggs
- 4 slices American cheese
- Butter or oil for cooking
Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Egg ring molds or mason jar lids (for round shapes)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Make the pancake batter
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and maple syrup. Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir just until smooth — don’t overmix.
Step 2: Cook the pancake buns
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease. Pour a few tablespoons of batter into greased egg rings or jar lids to make uniform circles. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbles form, then flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the sausage patties
In the same skillet, cook sausage patties until browned and fully cooked (about 3–4 minutes per side). Set aside.
Step 4: Make the folded eggs
Whisk eggs and season with a pinch of salt. Pour into a lightly greased skillet and let cook into a large, thin omelet. Fold into quarters or use egg rings for shape.
Step 5: Assemble your McGriddles
Layer one pancake, a sausage patty, a slice of cheese, folded egg, and top with another pancake. Brush the inside of the pancakes with a little extra maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Classic fast-food flavor made with real ingredients
– Sweet & savory perfection in every bite
– Fun and customizable
– Great for breakfast, brunch, or freezer meal prep
– No drive-thru required!
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
1. Pancakes too thick or too thin
→ Solution: Use molds and consistent batter portions to get even results.
2. Overcooked or rubbery eggs
→ Solution: Cook eggs low and slow. Keep them soft for that diner-style texture.
3. Soggy pancakes
→ Solution: Let pancakes cool slightly before assembling. If freezing, wrap individually to keep the texture just right.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
– Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup on the side
– Pair with hash browns, fruit salad, or a creamy iced coffee
– Wrap in foil for an on-the-go breakfast
– For spice lovers, add a dash of hot sauce or pepper jack cheese
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerate: Store assembled sandwiches in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap each McGriddle in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
Reheat:
- Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These reheat beautifully and are great for meal prep.
2. What kind of sausage should I use?
Use breakfast-style pork sausage or try turkey sausage for a lighter option.
3. Can I use pancake mix instead?
Absolutely — just mix it a little thicker than usual and add maple syrup to the batter.
4. How can I make it vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage patties or skip the meat and load it up with eggs and cheese.
5. Can I use real maple syrup?
Yes — brush the inside of the pancakes with real maple syrup for authentic flavor.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill the batter for 5–10 minutes to let it thicken slightly
– Use a cookie cutter to trim pancakes if needed
– Add a splash of vanilla to the pancake batter for extra depth
– Cook extra sausage patties and freeze them for easy future meals
– For extra indulgence, add a slice of crispy bacon!
Recipe Variations
1. Bacon McGriddle
Swap sausage for crispy bacon strips — or add both!
2. Spicy McGriddle
Use spicy sausage and pepper jack cheese for a little morning heat.
3. Veggie Deluxe
Add sautéed spinach, peppers, or avocado slices.
4. Sweet Tooth Version
Spread a thin layer of maple butter or Nutella between the pancakes before assembling.
5. Mini McGriddles
Use smaller egg rings and make slider-size versions for a fun brunch platter.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about the homemade version of a fast-food classic. These McGriddles hit all the right notes — the warm pancake, savory sausage, gooey cheese, and sweet maple kiss. Whether you’re making a batch for the family or meal-prepping your mornings, they bring that cozy, satisfying breakfast vibe every time.