Homemade McGriddles are the ultimate breakfast sandwich—fluffy pancake buns sweetened with maple syrup, stuffed with savory sausage or bacon. This DIY version of the fast-food favorite brings together sweet and salty flavors in a warm, handheld meal that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sweet and Savory Balance: Combines syrupy pancakes with salty breakfast meat for a delicious contrast.
Made from Scratch: Fresh, homemade pancake buns elevate this breakfast classic.
Customizable: Add egg, cheese, or other breakfast favorites to make it your own.
Family Favorite: A hit with both kids and adults—perfect for lazy weekends or breakfast on the go.
No Fast Food Required: Enjoy your favorite sandwich hot off the griddle, without leaving home.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the pancake buns:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 egg
¾ cup milk
1 tablespoon melted butter
2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
For the filling:
4 breakfast sausage patties or 4 slices of bacon
Optional Additions:
4 slices American cheese
4 fried or scrambled eggs
directions
Make the Pancake Batter
In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the egg with milk, melted butter, and maple syrup. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Cook the Pancake Buns
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil. Pour 2–3 tablespoons of batter for each pancake to form small, bun-sized rounds. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through. You’ll need 8 small pancakes total.
Prepare the Filling
While the pancakes cook, fry the sausage patties or bacon slices in a separate pan over medium heat until fully cooked and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Assemble the McGriddles
Layer one pancake, a sausage patty or slice of bacon, optional cheese and egg, then top with a second pancake. Drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
Serve
Serve warm as-is or wrap in foil for a breakfast on the go.
Servings and timing
Yield: Makes 4 McGriddles
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Add Egg and Cheese: Make it a complete breakfast sandwich with a fried or scrambled egg and a slice of cheese.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based breakfast sausage or smoked tofu slices.
Mini McGriddles: Use smaller portions to create bite-sized versions for parties or kids.
Extra Sweet: Add mini maple syrup chips or a touch of cinnamon to the pancake batter.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or pepper jack cheese for a spicy breakfast option.
storage/reheating
Storage:
Refrigerate assembled McGriddles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Pancake buns and fillings can also be stored separately.
Reheating:
Wrap in foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes. For best texture, avoid over-microwaving.
FAQs
Can I freeze homemade McGriddles?
Yes, wrap each sandwich individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.
What kind of sausage should I use?
Standard breakfast sausage patties work best. You can also shape ground sausage into patties and cook them fresh.
Can I make the pancake buns in advance?
Yes, cook and cool the pancakes ahead of time, then store in the refrigerator or freezer until needed.
How do I get syrup flavor inside the pancakes?
Adding maple syrup to the batter infuses sweetness, and extra drizzling enhances the flavor. For more intensity, add maple flavoring extract.
Are these messy to eat?
They can be slightly sticky. Wrapping in parchment or foil helps make them more portable and less messy.
Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, you can omit eggs from the filling and use an egg substitute or leave the pancake batter as-is.
What cheese works best?
American cheese melts smoothly and is traditional, but cheddar or Swiss can be used for a different flavor.
How thick should the pancake buns be?
Aim for 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick—thicker than a crepe but thinner than a traditional flapjack—for best sandwich texture.
Can I cook these in a waffle iron?
Yes, for a fun twist, cook the batter in a mini waffle iron and use waffle “buns.”
How do I keep them warm for a group?
Place assembled McGriddles on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F/95°C) covered with foil until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Homemade McGriddles are a deliciously satisfying way to start your day, blending the sweetness of maple pancakes with savory breakfast staples like sausage, bacon, and cheese. Whether you’re serving them fresh or prepping ahead, these sandwiches offer all the flavor of the fast-food original with the comfort and quality of homemade ingredients.
Homemade McGriddle
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
Description
Bring the iconic fast food breakfast home with this Homemade McGriddle! Featuring fluffy pancake buns with a hint of maple, paired with savory sausage or bacon, this sweet and salty breakfast sandwich is the ultimate morning indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Pancake Buns:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons sugar
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon baking soda
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Pinch of salt
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1 egg
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3/4 cup milk
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1 tablespoon melted butter
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2 tablespoons maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
For the Filling:
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4 breakfast sausage patties or 4 slices of bacon
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4 eggs (optional, fried or scrambled)
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4 slices of American or cheddar cheese
Instructions
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Make the Pancake Batter:
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In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
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In another bowl, whisk together egg, milk, melted butter, and maple syrup.
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Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
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Cook the Pancake Buns:
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Heat a lightly greased skillet or griddle over medium heat.
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Pour batter into small rounds (about the size of a sandwich bun). Cook until bubbles form and flip. Cook until golden brown. Set aside.
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Prepare the Filling:
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Cook sausage patties or bacon until crispy and fully cooked.
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Optionally, cook eggs to your preference.
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Assemble the McGriddle:
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Place a slice of cheese on the bottom pancake bun, followed by the sausage or bacon, egg (if using), and top with another pancake.
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Drizzle extra maple syrup inside or on top for the classic flavor.
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Notes
For a true McGriddle experience, pour a few maple syrup drops onto a hot skillet, let them crystallize slightly, then pour pancake batter over them to mimic syrup pockets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
