Memphis – Now I know why Elvis loved them so much. I also know why he packed on so many pounds.

With the American Queen riverboat now based in Memphis, Tennessee, I have another good reason for visiting one of my favorite cities. I also make it a point to drop by Graceland whenever I’m in town.

Not only is there always something new to see at Graceland and something old to remember, there is also that calorie-filled, delicious snack that Elvis favored.

Fried peanut butter and banana sandwiches are not for sissies. They aren’t cute little banana slivers atop skinny slices of whole wheat bread with a wispy hint of peanut butter.

Nope. This is the king of all sandwiches — drenched in butter and dripping with enough calories to reduce pants’ fit by a whole size.

Take a look at the artery-clogging recipe. To make three sandwiches (which I have heard Elvis could eat at one sitting), take two large bananas, six slices of white bread, one stick of butter (yep, that’s right) and one cup peanut butter.

Peel and squash the banana in the peanut butter. Doesn’t have to be gourmet mixing. Just get it smashed enough to spread chunkily. Lightly toast the bread and smear the mix onto it. Melt butter in skillet and brown sandwiches on each side until golden brown. Goes well with a glass of cold milk.

The first time I had one of these treats was in the best of all possible places to enjoy it — Elvis’ hometown of Memphis, at his own Graceland in the Chrome Grille. Now it has become a tradition for me on every Graceland visit. Then I have to walk, walk, walk to burn off some of those tasty calories.

If you want to try it at home, here’s the recipe, straight from Graceland:

Elvis’ Favorite Peanut Butter & Banana Sandwiches

2 large bananas

6 slices white bread

1 stick (1/2 cup) butter

1 cup peanut butter

Peel and mash bananas. Mix peanut butter with bananas thoroughly. Toast bread lightly and spread mix on bread. Melt butter in skillet and brown sandwiches on each side slowly until golden brown.

By Jackie Sheckler Finch