McDonald’s Breakfast Hours

If you are a fan of fast food, then you probably know all about McDonald’s breakfast. It is one of the most popular breakfast menus in the world, and it has a long history of satisfying customers with its delicious and affordable mealtime options.

So, I decided to take a closer look at the McDonald’s breakfast menu, as well as the McDonald’s breakfast hours, so you are never left hungry in the morning or feeling like you missed out on something.

First up…

The History of The Breakfast Menu at McDonald’s

So, when did a fast food restaurant start serving breakfast? Well, McDonald’s was contemplating the addition of a breakfast menu in 1972. However, it wasn’t until franchise owner Herb Peterson presented his breakfast sandwich idea to chairman Ray Kroc that the company decided to move forward with the concept.

Fun fact…

This idea came at the same time that another franchise owner, Jim Delligatti, convinced McDonald’s to broaden his menu with sweet rolls and doughnuts.

Peterson had previously worked as a client of McDonald’s while employed at D’Arcy Advertising in Chicago. With the help of his assistant, Donald Greadel, he developed the Egg McMuffin, inspired by his love for eggs benedict and the need for a breakfast sandwich that could be eaten on the go. 

And the rest is history…

Kroc was so impressed with the Egg McMuffin idea that he approved its introduction to McDonald’s locations nationwide. By 1977, McDonald’s had launched a full breakfast menu, which included hotcakes, sausage, hash browns, and more. In just 20 years, the fast-food giant became a leader in the breakfast industry. Earning $5 billion annually from it alone.

Over the years, McDonald’s has continued to innovate with new breakfast items, such as biscuit sandwiches, breakfast burritos, and the popular McGriddle sandwiches. In 2010, the chain added oatmeal to the menu, followed by egg white Egg McMuffins in 2013. Then, Triple Stack McGriddle sandwiches in 2018, and donut sticks in 2019.

All About the McDonald’s Breakfast Menu: A Delicious Start to Your Day

The morning menu is filled with delicious options that are sure to satisfy any craving. From sandwiches to hotcakes, there is something for everyone on McDonanld’s breakfast menu. The most popular item on the menu is the Egg McMuffin, which features a freshly cracked egg, Canadian bacon, and melty American cheese on a toasted English muffin. Other favorites include the Sausage McMuffin, the Big Breakfast, and the Hash Browns.

In addition to classic breakfast sandwiches and sides, the restaurant has expanded its breakfast menu over the years to include a wide range of delicious and innovative items. One popular addition is the McGriddle sandwich, which features sweet and savory pancakes with a filling of sausage, bacon, egg, or cheese. 

Another customer favorite is the Breakfast Burrito. This combines fluffy scrambled eggs, melted cheese, savory sausage or crispy bacon, and a zesty salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla.

Yum!

For those who prefer a sweeter breakfast, they offer a variety of options, such as hotcakes with butter and syrup, cinnamon melts, and apple slices with caramel dip. And for those who want a caffeine boost to start their day, you will be pleased to know the fast food chain serves premium roast coffee, lattes, and mochas, all made with freshly ground beans.

And for those on restricted diets?

Yes, in recent years, McDonald’s has also responded to changing dietary preferences by offering plant-based options such as the McPlant sandwich. It features a meatless patty made with pea protein. The menu also includes healthy options such as fruit and yogurt parfaits, oatmeal, and egg white delights, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious customers.

Additionally, they have introduced new limited-time items such as the McChicken Biscuit. A Southern-style breakfast sandwich with a crispy chicken patty and a flaky biscuit.

How does pricing compare to other fast-food giants?

Compared to its competitors, the breakfast menu is reasonably priced. Making it an excellent option for those who want a quick and affordable breakfast. 

McDonald’s Breakfast Hours Policy: Why So Early?

Around 20% of McDonald’s restaurants are open 24 hours a day, which means that most of them serve breakfast early in the morning. However, it’s always a good idea to confirm the breakfast timings with your local restaurant. You can do this by calling the restaurant or by checking their website for the breakfast menu and timings.

So, what are the official breakfast hours at McDonald’s?

It depends on the day of the week. Most outlets in the United States offer breakfast at 5 a.m. and close at 10:30 a.m. during weekdays and weekends, except for Fridays. On Fridays, you can enjoy an extra half an hour to pick up your breakfast.

It’s worth noting that McDonald’s policy on breakfast hours has been a source of controversy for many years. The limited kitchen space at the restaurants is the primary reason why breakfast is only available until a specific time. This is because the restaurant needs time to prepare for the lunch rush. So stopping breakfast service at a certain time is necessary.

However, while this policy makes sense from a business perspective, it has been a source of frustration for customers who crave breakfast later in the day.

Great news!

Fortunately, McDonald’s has been listening to its customers, and in recent years, they’ve been testing all-day breakfast in select locations. This move has been a hit with breakfast lovers, and it’s expected that all-day breakfast will eventually become available in most restaurants across the country.

In the meantime, if you find yourself craving a McDonald’s breakfast outside of their regular hours, there are a few menu items available throughout the day that can help satisfy your craving, even if it’s not technically breakfast hours.

The Impact of McDonald’s Current Breakfast Hours

Despite the criticism of the breakfast hours policy, McDonald’s breakfast is still a customer favorite. The early breakfast hours have not stopped customers from enjoying their favorite breakfast items. And it has not affected the company’s bottom line. In fact, they have seen increased sales since introducing the breakfast menu in the 1970s.

Leveling up…

The success of the breakfast menu has also led to increased competition from other fast food chains. Many of which have introduced their own breakfast menus. However, McDonald’s breakfast menu remains one of the most popular in the world, and the limited hours have not, and probably never will, affect its popularity!

Alternative Breakfast Options: For Those Who Want Breakfast All Day

For breakfast lovers who want more variety and flexibility in their food choices, several fast-food chains have started offering all-day breakfast menus to cater to their customers’ needs. For instance, Jack in the Box and Burger King offer all-day menus that feature items like breakfast burritos, croissants, and pancakes. These can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

Apart from fast-food chains…

There are also cafes and diners that specialize in breakfast items and offer a more extensive selection of breakfast options. These establishments often serve classics like pancakes, waffles, omelets, and sandwiches, along with unique items like avocado toast, breakfast bowls, and smoothie bowls. Some cafes also offer healthier alternatives, like granola, yogurt, and fresh fruit.

However, it’s worth noting that alternative options may not be as affordable or convenient as fast-food chains like McDonald’s. Additionally, the quality of the food may vary depending on the restaurant or cafe you choose. So it’s always good to read reviews or ask for recommendations to ensure you get the best breakfast experience possible.

Love McDonald’s?

So do we! To tell the truth, we’re actually some of McDonald’s biggest fans… So, let us help answer all of your other questions, like When Does McDonalds Serve Lunch, Are McDonald’s Fries Vegetarian, Do McDonald’s Frappes Have Caffeine, Does McDonalds Take Apple Pay and all about getting the McDonald’s VIP Card in 2023!

Or perhaps all the stores are closed, and you’re just popping into a 24-hour Mc D’s for a treat. And you’re wondering, Does McDonalds Sell Cake, or Does McDonalds Sell Ice?

And for those die-hard Mcdonald’s fans out there…

Why not check out the Biggest McDonald’s in the World? Or take a look at our comprehensive stack-up of McDonalds vs Burger King!

Ok, back to…

Final Thoughts

McDonalds breakfast hours policy has been a source of controversy for many years. However, while the limited hours may be frustrating for some customers, the menu remains one of the most popular in the world.

The company’s success with the breakfast menu has led to increased competition from other fast food chains, but McDonald’s continues to be a customer favorite.

And whether you are a fan of the Egg McMuffin or the Big Breakfast, McDonald’s is sure to keep you satisfied. With all-day breakfast being tested in select locations, perhaps one day we’ll see their breakfast available all day long!

Until then, enjoy your favorite breakfast items during the regular hours!