New York (CNN Business) Donuts Sticks and bacon were a sweet and savory success for McDonald's last quarter.

McDonald's reported strong first-quarter earnings because of robust sales for new menu items and promotions. McDonald's said global comparable sales jumped 5.4% -- its 15th consecutive quarter of global sales growth for the company. US sales grew 4.5%.

During the quarter, McDonald's added Donut Sticks to its breakfast offering and a new 2 for $5 Mix and Match deal. It also said its "Bacon Event," a one-day event in January that let customers add bacon on the side of any order, was a big success.

The boost in sales fueled by Donut Sticks and bacon shows how important breakfast continues to be for the fast food sector. It's the industry's only growth market.

Breakfast sales at fast-food restaurants rose 1% last year, but overall sales were flat, according to NPD. More people prepare breakfast at home than any other meal, so quick-serve restaurants believe there is room for growth.