1. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Pans: Getting Ready to Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Muffin Pans: Line two mini muffin pans with paper liners. Alternatively, you can generously grease the muffin cups with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

2. Cook the Sausage: A Savory Foundation

1. Brown Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until it’s fully browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Drain Grease: Once cooked, drain off any excess grease from the sausage.
3. Set Aside: Set the cooked sausage aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Batter: Combining the Ingredients

1. Combine Pancake Mix and Water: In a medium bowl, combine the pancake mix and water. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay.
2. Add Cheese, Syrup, and Sausage: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, maple syrup, and the cooked and drained breakfast sausage. Mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Fill the Muffin Pans: Portioning the Batter

1. Spoon Batter: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin pans, filling each cup about ¾ full.
   • Tip: A small cookie scoop or a spoon can help with even portioning.

5. Bake to Perfection: Achieving Golden-Brown Bites

1. Bake: Place the filled muffin pans in the preheated oven.
2. Baking Time: Bake for 15 minutes, or until the Mini McGriddle Bites are lightly golden brown on top.
   • Check for Doneness: A toothpick inserted into the center of a bite should come out clean.

6. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Mini McGriddle Bites

1. Cool Slightly: Let the Mini McGriddle Bites cool in the muffin pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or serving plate.
2. Serve Warm: Serve warm, with extra maple syrup for dipping or drizzling, if desired.