What makes peanut butter and banana work so well in this recipe?

I’ve found that creamy peanut butter adds richness, while ripe bananas bring natural sweetness. Together, they create a smooth texture that balances crispy bacon or pork. Elvis’s love for bold contrasts inspired this combo.

Can I substitute ingredients if I don’t eat pork?

Absolutely! I’ve used turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives for a lighter twist. The key is to keep the salty crunch. For butter, try coconut oil or vegan spreads to maintain that nostalgic flavor.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy when assembling?

I toast the bread lightly in a skillet first. Spread peanut butter on both slices as a barrier, then layer bananas and cooked bacon quickly. Serving it warm helps keep the texture intact.

Did Elvis really eat this sandwich as a midnight snack?

Yes! Stories say he’d crave it after late performances. My version stays true to his recipe—thick-cut bacon, soft bread, and generous portions. Some restaurants even serve it as a tribute.

What sides pair best with this savory-sweet dish?

I love crispy potato wedges or pickles for tanginess. For a classic diner feel, add a milkshake. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or honey drizzles to elevate the flavors further.

Can I prepare this ahead of time for a party?

I recommend assembling it fresh, but you can pre-cook bacon and slice bananas. Store ingredients separately, then grill just before serving. A cast-iron skillet gives that golden crust Elvis would approve of.

The King's Midnight Snack Sandwich: My Go-To Order

Name: The King's Midnight Snack Sandwich: My Go-To Order
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices white bread (or sourdough); 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural variety preferred); 2 ripe bananas with speckled skins, mashed; 6 strips thick-cut bacon; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); Pinch of sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Description

Experience Elvis Presley’s legendary midnight snack with this perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, caramelized bananas, and crispy bacon. A rock and roll icon’s favorite comfort food made simple for modern kitchens.

Ingredients

Scale

4 slices white bread (or sourdough)

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural variety preferred)

2 ripe bananas with speckled skins, mashed

6 strips thick-cut bacon

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Pinch of sea salt

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook bacon in skillet over medium heat until crispy, 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels.

2. Mash bananas with fork until spreadable but still chunky. Set aside.

3. Spread peanut butter evenly on 2 slices of bread.

4. Spread mashed bananas on remaining 2 slices.

5. Layer crispy bacon strips over peanut butter slices.

6. Press sandwich halves together gently but firmly.

7. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in clean skillet over medium-low heat.

8. Cook sandwich 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

9. Let rest 30 seconds before cutting diagonally with chilled knife.

10. Serve immediately while peanut butter is warm and gooey.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for better structure and less sogginess.

Chill knife before cutting to prevent squishing the sandwich.

For lighter version, substitute turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives.

Add honey to peanut butter for extra sweetness like Elvis preferred.

Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 375°F for 3 minutes to restore crispness.

Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 8
Category: Snack
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 520
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 35mg