Wow. What a bunch of Negative Nellies. I'd definitely do what Keith said. I would also do some research and figure out who owns the McDonald's franchise near where you live. Hopefully it's a person and not a big corporation, though that would work too.
Approach the person locally and explain that you have a great idea and would like to pitch it to McDonalds corporate. Google your butt off until you find a person to talk to.
If worse comes to worst go talk to the manager or general manager of the local McDonalds (their names and numbers are usually on the wall). Call them and explain who you are and that you have an opportunity for them. You'll end up pitching it to someone.
And keep trying. Don't listen to people who think they're doing you a favor by pointing out that you don't have a chance. You do.
Matt
The Dean Group

Web reference: www.deangroup.net

They will have no interest....they have their own chefs, bakers and development teams. Even if they do like it...patent or not...you don't have a chance. Commodity type recipes are almost impossible to protect.
You are better off presenting to a baker that supplies fast food restaurants in general, assuming your product is in fact unique.

With all respects to Keith N, that would be the worst thing in the World to do!!! Do not EVER go up against a company like McDonald's without being protected by a VERY strong Attorney!!! He is absolutely, unquestionably incorrect.

Web reference: www.bafgroup.com

As long as you can prove you had the idea first do don't need an attorney. If you can't affrd a patent you can use a time stamp service or the poor mans patent and mail it to yourself. I would document eveything.

Web reference: www.opportunitywillknock.com

Through an attorney. Otherwise, if they like it, you would probably be robbed blind!!!

Web reference: www.bafgroup.com