McDonald’s breakfast menu has been a beloved staple for hungry customers on the go since 1971. While classics like the Egg McMuffin and Hash Browns are well-known favorites, there are many lesser-known items that even frequent patrons may have overlooked.
McDonald’s offers a diverse array of breakfast options beyond the familiar favorites, with unique regional specialties and limited-time offerings that keep the menu fresh and exciting. These hidden gems cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, providing alternatives for those seeking to explore beyond their usual morning meal choices. From hearty sandwiches to lighter fare, there’s likely something new for everyone to discover on the McDonald’s breakfast menu.
1) Egg White Delight McMuffin
The Egg White Delight McMuffin made its debut on McDonald’s breakfast menu in 2013. This healthier alternative to the classic Egg McMuffin aimed to cater to more health-conscious customers.
The sandwich featured 100% egg whites, extra lean Canadian bacon, and white cheddar cheese. It was served on a whole grain English muffin, offering a lighter option compared to its traditional counterpart.
With fewer calories and no cholesterol from egg yolks, the Egg White Delight McMuffin appealed to those watching their calorie intake. The sandwich contained about 50 fewer calories than the regular Egg McMuffin.
Despite its initial popularity, McDonald’s removed the Egg White Delight from its national menu in 2018. Some franchises continued to offer it if there was local demand, but by 2020, the item had disappeared entirely from McDonald’s restaurants.
The Egg White Delight McMuffin’s short-lived presence on the menu demonstrates McDonald’s ongoing efforts to adapt to changing consumer preferences. While it may no longer be available, it remains a notable part of McDonald’s breakfast menu history.
2) Cinnamon Melts
McDonald’s Cinnamon Melts were a beloved breakfast menu item that debuted in 2007. These sweet treats consisted of small pastries covered in brown sugar, cinnamon, and cream cheese icing.
The Cinnamon Melts quickly gained popularity among customers, offering a taste similar to classic cinnamon rolls. They provided a decadent option for those seeking a sugary start to their day.
Despite their fan-favorite status, McDonald’s decided to discontinue Cinnamon Melts in the late 2010s. The removal of this item from the menu left many customers disappointed.
Some dedicated fans even started a petition urging McDonald’s to bring back the Cinnamon Melts. Although thousands of signatures were collected, the fast-food chain has not reintroduced the item.
The disappearance of Cinnamon Melts coincided with McDonald’s efforts to revamp its menu. During this time, the company focused on introducing healthier options and streamlining its offerings.
While Cinnamon Melts are no longer available, they remain a fondly remembered part of McDonald’s breakfast history. Their brief tenure on the menu left a lasting impression on many McDonald’s patrons.
3) Fruit & Maple Oatmeal
Fruit & Maple Oatmeal is a healthier alternative on McDonald’s breakfast menu. This dish combines whole-grain rolled oats with a touch of cream and brown sugar for a hearty start to the day.
The oatmeal is topped with a mix of diced red and green apples, adding a fresh and crisp texture. A blend of sweetened dried cranberries, California raisins, and golden raisins provides additional flavor and natural sweetness.
Priced at around $3.19, this breakfast option contains 320 calories. It offers a balance of whole grains and fruits, making it a more nutritious choice compared to some other fast food breakfast items.
The Fruit & Maple Oatmeal provides two full servings of whole-grain oats. Its creamy texture and sweet-savory flavor profile make it a satisfying meal for those seeking a lighter breakfast option at McDonald’s.
While not as well-known as McDonald’s classic breakfast sandwiches, the Fruit & Maple Oatmeal has gained popularity among health-conscious customers. It serves as a testament to the chain’s efforts to diversify its menu with more nutritious offerings.
4) Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel
The Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel is a hearty breakfast option on McDonald’s menu. It features a juicy steak patty, folded egg, and melted American cheese on a toasted bagel.
The sandwich also includes savory grilled onions, adding an extra layer of flavor. The bagel is freshly toasted with real butter, providing a crisp texture to complement the tender steak.
This breakfast item is known for its satisfying combination of protein and carbohydrates. The steak patty is made from small pieces of meat pressed together, giving it a distinctive texture and taste.
Prices may vary by location, but customers can expect to pay around $5.89 for this filling breakfast sandwich. It’s worth noting that availability can differ depending on the restaurant and region.
The Steak, Egg & Cheese Bagel is one of the few bagel options remaining on McDonald’s breakfast menu. It offers a more substantial alternative to the classic McMuffin or biscuit sandwiches.
5) Bacon, Egg & Cheese McGriddles
The Bacon, Egg & Cheese McGriddles combines sweet and savory flavors in a unique breakfast sandwich. It features crispy bacon, a folded egg, and melted cheese nestled between two soft McGriddles cakes.
The McGriddles cakes are made to taste like syrup-infused pancakes, adding a touch of sweetness to every bite. This creates an interesting contrast with the salty bacon and cheese.
At 430 calories, this sandwich packs a substantial amount of energy to start the day. It’s often served as part of a meal with hash browns and coffee.
The Bacon, Egg & Cheese McGriddles can be ordered through various methods. Customers can use the drive-thru or mobile app for convenient pickup or delivery options.
This menu item offers a different take on the traditional breakfast sandwich. Its unique flavor combination sets it apart from other McDonald’s breakfast offerings.
6) Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait
The Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait was a popular McDonald’s breakfast menu item that gained a devoted following during its 20-year run. Introduced in 1999, it offered a lighter alternative to the chain’s traditional breakfast fare.
This parfait featured layers of low-fat yogurt, fresh strawberries, blueberries, and crunchy granola. It stood out as one of the few McDonald’s breakfast options that didn’t include cheese, sausage, or bacon.
The item was part of McDonald’s effort to introduce healthier menu choices in the early 2000s. It was available all day, making it a versatile option for health-conscious customers at any time.
Despite its popularity, the Fruit ‘N Yogurt Parfait was discontinued in 2020. The decision came as McDonald’s streamlined its menu during the COVID-19 pandemic to focus on drive-thru efficiency.
Many fans expressed disappointment when the parfait was removed from the menu. Its absence left a gap in McDonald’s offerings for those seeking a lighter, fruit-based breakfast option.
7) McChicken Biscuit
The McChicken Biscuit is a savory breakfast sandwich offered by McDonald’s. It features a crispy chicken patty served on a warm, freshly baked biscuit.
This menu item combines the popular McChicken patty with a buttery biscuit, creating a hearty morning meal option. The chicken patty is seasoned and breaded, providing a satisfying crunch.
The McChicken Biscuit contains 420 calories, making it a substantial breakfast choice. It’s part of McDonald’s all-day breakfast menu at participating locations.
Customers can order this item individually or as part of a meal. The meal option typically includes hash browns and a beverage, with prices varying by location.
For those seeking a protein-rich breakfast with a bit of Southern flair, the McChicken Biscuit offers a tasty alternative to traditional egg-based breakfast sandwiches.
8) Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Biscuit
The Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Biscuit is a savory breakfast option from McDonald’s. It features a crispy chicken fillet served on a warm buttermilk biscuit brushed with real butter.
This menu item combines the satisfying crunch of breaded chicken with the flaky texture of a freshly baked biscuit. The chicken is seasoned and pressure cooked in peanut oil to achieve its signature crispy exterior.
With 570 calories per sandwich, it provides a substantial start to the day. The macronutrient breakdown is 39% carbohydrates, 44% fat, and 17% protein.
The Buttermilk Crispy Chicken Biscuit offers a good source of protein, providing 43% of the recommended daily value. This can help customers feel fuller for longer periods.
McDonald’s introduced this item as part of their efforts to expand and improve their breakfast menu offerings. It caters to those who prefer a heartier, savory breakfast option over traditional choices.
9) Sausage Burrito
The Sausage Burrito is a popular breakfast item on McDonald’s menu. It combines savory ingredients wrapped in a soft flour tortilla.
The burrito contains scrambled eggs, seasoned pork sausage, and melted cheddar cheese. Green chiles and onions add extra flavor to the mix.
This breakfast option provides a hearty start to the day. It packs 310 calories and offers a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
The Sausage Burrito is priced at $2.69, making it an affordable choice for those on the go. It’s a convenient handheld meal that can be eaten easily during a morning commute.
McDonald’s offers this burrito as part of their all-day breakfast menu at some locations. Customers can also earn rewards points when purchasing the Sausage Burrito through the McDonald’s app.
While not as well-known as some other breakfast items, the Sausage Burrito has gained a loyal following among McDonald’s patrons. Its combination of taste and portability makes it a satisfying option for breakfast seekers.
10) Big Breakfast with Hotcakes
The Big Breakfast with Hotcakes is a hearty meal option on McDonald’s breakfast menu. It combines several popular breakfast items into one satisfying platter.
This meal includes scrambled eggs, a savory sausage patty, crispy hash browns, and a warm buttermilk biscuit. The star of the show is a stack of fluffy hotcakes served with butter and maple syrup.
The Big Breakfast with Hotcakes provides a substantial 1340 calories, making it one of the more indulgent choices on the menu. It’s designed to fuel customers for a busy day ahead.
Priced at around $8.59, this breakfast combo offers good value for those with larger appetites. The meal can be customized to suit individual preferences, with options to exclude certain items if desired.
McDonald’s typically serves this breakfast item from early morning until 10:30 or 11:00 AM, depending on the location. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a full, diner-style breakfast experience in a fast-food setting.
11) Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken McMuffin
The Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken McMuffin combines two popular McDonald’s items into one unique breakfast sandwich. This fusion creation features the spicy chicken patty from the Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken nestled inside a classic McMuffin.
The sandwich starts with a toasted English muffin as its base. The spicy chicken patty is then placed on top, bringing a kick of heat to the morning meal. It’s seasoned with a bold blend of spices that wake up the taste buds.
To balance the spiciness, the sandwich includes a layer of melted cheese. The creamy texture and mild flavor complement the zesty chicken. A dollop of mayonnaise adds extra richness to each bite.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat with their breakfast, this menu item delivers. It offers a different take on the traditional egg-based McMuffin options. The Hot ‘n Spicy McChicken McMuffin provides a protein-packed start to the day with its chicken patty centerpiece.
While not available at all locations, this breakfast sandwich has gained popularity where it’s offered. It appeals to customers looking for a more adventurous morning meal option at McDonald’s.
12) Maple Bacon Croissant
The Maple Bacon Croissant is a lesser-known gem on McDonald’s breakfast menu. This indulgent item combines sweet and savory flavors in a flaky, buttery croissant.
At its core is a crispy bacon strip, perfectly cooked to add a salty crunch. The bacon is complemented by a slice of melted American cheese, creating a gooey texture.
The star of this breakfast sandwich is the maple-flavored sauce. It adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the savory elements without overpowering them.
All these ingredients are nestled inside a golden-brown croissant. The pastry’s layers provide a satisfying texture and buttery taste that elevates the entire sandwich.
This menu item offers a unique twist on traditional breakfast flavors. It appeals to those who enjoy a balance of sweet and salty in their morning meal.
While not available at all locations, the Maple Bacon Croissant is worth seeking out for McDonald’s breakfast enthusiasts looking to try something different.
13) Bacon, Egg & Cheese McMuffin
The Bacon, Egg & Cheese McMuffin is a popular breakfast sandwich offered by McDonald’s. It combines savory bacon, a freshly cracked egg, and melted American cheese on a toasted English muffin.
This hearty breakfast option provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to start the day. The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the soft egg and gooey cheese.
At 350 calories, the Bacon, Egg & Cheese McMuffin offers a satisfying meal without being overly heavy. It’s a convenient choice for those seeking a quick, portable breakfast on busy mornings.
While not as widely known as the classic Egg McMuffin, this bacon-enhanced version has gained a dedicated following. It appeals to customers who enjoy a meatier breakfast sandwich with the added crunch of bacon.
The Bacon, Egg & Cheese McMuffin is typically priced around $4.19, making it an affordable option for those looking to try something different from McDonald’s breakfast menu.
14) Blueberry Muffin
McDonald’s introduced the Blueberry Muffin as part of its McCafé Bakery line in October 2020. This sweet breakfast item featured a soft, cake-like texture studded with real blueberries.
The muffin was topped with a streusel crumb topping for added sweetness and crunch. It quickly became a popular choice for customers seeking a grab-and-go breakfast option or a midday snack.
Despite its initial success, the Blueberry Muffin had a relatively short lifespan on the McDonald’s menu. In July 2023, the fast-food chain announced the discontinuation of its entire McCafé Bakery line, including the Blueberry Muffin.
The removal of these items was part of McDonald’s ongoing menu optimization efforts. While some customers expressed disappointment, the company continues to explore new breakfast offerings to meet changing consumer preferences.
15) Cheddar Biscuit Sandwich
The Cheddar Biscuit Sandwich is a lesser-known item on McDonald’s breakfast menu. This savory offering combines the classic Southern-style biscuit with a flavorful twist.
The sandwich features a warm, flaky biscuit as its base. Inside, a layer of melted cheddar cheese adds a rich, tangy flavor profile.
Customers can customize their Cheddar Biscuit Sandwich with additional protein options. Popular choices include a folded egg, crispy bacon strips, or a savory sausage patty.
This breakfast item provides a satisfying balance of textures. The soft, buttery biscuit contrasts nicely with the gooey cheese and chosen protein.
The Cheddar Biscuit Sandwich is not available at all McDonald’s locations. It’s often considered a regional menu item, making it a unique find for breakfast enthusiasts.
For those who enjoy a cheese-forward breakfast option, this sandwich offers a delicious alternative to the more common Egg McMuffin or McGriddles.
The History of McDonald’s Breakfast Menu
McDonald’s breakfast menu has a rich history spanning several decades. It revolutionized fast food morning offerings and became a staple for millions of customers worldwide.
Origins of Breakfast Innovations
The McDonald’s breakfast menu originated in 1972 with the introduction of the Egg McMuffin. This innovative sandwich was created by franchise owner Herb Peterson in Santa Barbara, California. Peterson aimed to develop a portable breakfast item inspired by Eggs Benedict.
The Egg McMuffin’s success led McDonald’s to expand its breakfast offerings. In 1977, the company officially launched a full breakfast menu nationwide. This groundbreaking move included items like hotcakes, toasted English muffins, scrambled eggs, sausage, hash browns, and Danish pastries.
McDonald’s breakfast quickly gained popularity among consumers seeking quick morning meals. The menu’s convenience and affordability appealed to busy commuters and families alike.
Menu Evolution Over the Years
Throughout the years, McDonald’s breakfast menu has undergone significant changes and expansions. New items were introduced to cater to evolving tastes and preferences.
In the 1980s and 1990s, McDonald’s added more variety to its breakfast lineup. Options like the Sausage McMuffin, Breakfast Burritos, and McGriddles joined the menu, offering customers more choices.
A major shift occurred in 2015 when McDonald’s introduced all-day breakfast in the United States. This move allowed customers to enjoy breakfast items beyond traditional morning hours, increasing accessibility and boosting sales.
Recent years have seen further innovations, including healthier options and regional specialties. The company continues to adapt its breakfast menu to meet changing consumer demands and maintain its competitive edge in the fast food market.
Nutritional Insights
McDonald’s breakfast menu offers a range of options with varying nutritional profiles. Calorie content and dietary accommodations differ across menu items, allowing customers to make informed choices.
Calorie Considerations
The calorie content of McDonald’s breakfast items varies widely. The Egg McMuffin contains 300 calories, making it a relatively lighter option. In contrast, the Sausage McMuffin with Egg packs 480 calories. Hash browns add 150 calories to a meal.
For those watching their calorie intake, the Side Salad stands out at just 15 calories without dressing. Hotcakes and McGriddles tend to be higher in calories due to their sweetness and density.
Portion sizes play a key role in calorie counts. Opting for smaller sizes or removing high-calorie components can reduce overall calorie intake.
Dietary Preferences and Options
McDonald’s caters to various dietary needs within its breakfast menu. For protein-focused diets, egg-based items like McMuffins provide 17-20 grams of protein. Vegetarian options are limited but include items like hotcakes and hash browns.
Low-carb dieters may prefer egg-based items without the bun. Those seeking lower fat options could choose the Egg McMuffin over the Sausage McMuffin.
McDonald’s provides detailed nutritional information for all menu items. This transparency allows customers with specific dietary requirements or preferences to make informed decisions based on factors such as protein, carbohydrate, and fat content.