Preheat & Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a mini muffin tin or use mini cupcake liners.
Make the Pancake Batter:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and maple syrup.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fill the Muffin Cups:
Spoon a small amount of batter into each mini muffin cup, filling it about halfway.
Add a small spoonful of cooked sausage and a sprinkle of cheese (and bacon if using) into each cup.
Top with more pancake batter, filling each cup almost to the top.
Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Serve:
Let the Mini McGriddle Bites cool slightly before removing them from the muffin tin.
Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.