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McGriddle Muffins
Introduction (short)
McGriddle Muffins are a fun, homemade twist on the popular breakfast sandwich. They combine fluffy maple-flavored pancake muffins with savory sausage, eggs, and melted cheddar cheese—making them the perfect grab-and-go breakfast option.
Ingredients
For the Maple “Pancake” Muffin Base:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup maple syrup (preferably real)
• ¼ cup butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Savory Filling:
• ½ lb (8 oz) breakfast sausage
• 5 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk or cream
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage: Cook the breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease and set aside.
2. Scramble the Eggs: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk/cream, salt, and pepper. Cook gently in a skillet until just set (slightly soft, not dry). Remove from heat.
3. Make the Muffin Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, maple syrup, butter, and vanilla. Pour wet ingredients into dry, mixing just until combined (do not overmix).
4. Assemble the Muffins: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line or grease a 12-cup muffin tin. Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, add a spoonful of sausage, a spoonful of scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of cheese. Top with more batter until cups are about ¾ full.
5. Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or stored for later.
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How to Make (step-by-step overview)
• Mix the maple pancake batter.
• Cook sausage and eggs separately.
• Layer batter, filling, and cheese in muffin cups.
• Bake until fluffy, golden, and set.
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Variations
• Meat-Free: Skip sausage and add sautéed veggies like peppers, onions, or spinach.
• Different Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a flavor twist.
• Protein Boost: Use turkey sausage, ham, or even bacon instead of traditional pork sausage.
• Mini Muffins: Make bite-sized versions for party appetizers or kids’ snacks.
• Sweet Touch: Drizzle baked muffins with extra maple syrup or honey.
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Tips
• Do not overmix the batter, or muffins may become dense.
• Pre-cook sausage and eggs fully before adding to muffins (they won’t cook much inside the batter).
• Use real maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days, or freeze for 1–2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Grease the muffin tin well to prevent sticking if not using liners.
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Conclusion (short)
McGriddle Muffins are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, ideal for meal-prep or busy mornings. With endless variations and easy storage, they’re a fun and practical breakfast everyone will love.