Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork sausage
• 2 cups pancake mix
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
• 1/4 cup maple syrup, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for brushing)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Lightly grease 36 mini muffin cups with cooking spray or line them with paper liners.
2. In a large skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the pork sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pancake mix and water. Stir until smooth and well blended.
4. Fold in the cooked sausage, shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped chives, and maple syrup until the mixture is evenly incorporated.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the muffins are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Once baked, brush the tops of the muffins with melted butter (optional) and serve with extra maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 102
• Total Fat: 6g (7% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 17mg (6% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 230mg (10% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 8g (3% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 5g (9% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 76mg (6% Daily Value)
• Iron: 0mg (3% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 68mg (1% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

The concept of combining sausage and pancakes is an American breakfast classic, dating back to the early 20th century. While the origins of pancake recipes go back to ancient civilizations, the modern pairing of sausage with pancakes likely arose in the United States during the 19th century when pork sausage became a popular breakfast meat. Over time, creative cooks started experimenting with new forms of these breakfast staples, resulting in dishes like the Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins. This dish blends the best of both worldssavory sausage and sweet pancakesinto a convenient and delicious handheld muffin.

Regional Variations

While the Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins are particularly popular in the United States, they can also be found in some variations across different regions. In the Southern U.S., it's common to serve pancakes with a side of sausage or bacon. In other regions, such as the Midwest, breakfast casseroles combining sausage and pancakes are quite common. The muffin format of this dish, however, adds a modern and portable twist, making it a favorite for busy mornings or as a fun breakfast treat at brunches. The addition of maple syrup to the muffin batter is a hallmark of the North American style of cooking, showcasing the love for sweet-savory combinations.

What Sets Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins Apart

Unlike traditional breakfast dishes such as sausage and pancakes or sausage gravy, the Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins offer a new and innovative way to enjoy these ingredients. They are unique because they combine the texture of a fluffy pancake with savory sausage and cheddar cheese, all baked into convenient muffin-sized portions. This makes them perfect for both sit-down breakfasts and on-the-go snacking. In contrast to similar breakfast muffins, which might focus solely on one flavor profile, these mini muffins offer a satisfying balance of sweet and savory in each bite.

Where Are They Typically Served?

Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They are perfect for brunch gatherings, breakfast buffets, or as a make-ahead meal for busy weekdays. Many people prepare them for special occasions like holidays, where their fun and bite-sized nature make them a crowd-pleaser. They're also great for freezing and reheating, making them ideal for busy mornings when time is short but a hearty breakfast is needed. Whether at home, at a family gathering, or at a potluck, these muffins are sure to be a hit.

Interesting Facts

• Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins are a great make-ahead option for busy mornings. They can be stored in the freezer and easily reheated for a quick breakfast.
• The combination of savory sausage and sweet maple syrup in these muffins highlights the popularity of sweet-and-salty flavor combinations in modern cuisine.
• These muffins offer a balanced snack, providing both protein from the sausage and cheese, and carbohydrates from the pancake mix, making them an energizing option to start the day.
• While maple syrup is often used in the batter, many people also dip the muffins in extra syrup, enhancing the sweet flavor.

Conclusion

The Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins are a modern, fun twist on a beloved American breakfast. Their history reflects the longstanding tradition of combining savory and sweet elements in breakfast dishes, but their muffin format offers convenience and portability, making them a favorite choice for busy mornings or gatherings. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated from the freezer, these muffins will continue to delight breakfast enthusiasts for years to come.

FAQ about Mini Sausage Pancake Muffins Recipe

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