Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Peanut Butter & Banana Magic : The classic combo that Elvis adored—rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible.
- Easy to Make : Simple steps with no fancy techniques required.
- Perfect for Parties : A show-stopping dessert for themed events or special occasions.
- Customizable : Add bacon or chocolate for an extra decadent twist.
- Crowd-Pleasing : Fans of Elvis (and non-fans alike) will go wild for this cake!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 8–10
For the Banana Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or your favorite homemade recipe)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter , softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 cups powdered sugar , sifted
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
- Bacon strips (fried crispy and crumbled)
- Chocolate ganache drizzle
- Banana slices
- Crushed peanuts
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Banana Cake
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 2–3 minutes , until smooth and well combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes , then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Frosting
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and peanut butter together until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes ).
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 3–4 minutes , until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. Add more cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use a spatula or bench scraper to smooth the frosting for a polished look.
Step 5: Add Toppings
- Decorate the cake with optional toppings like crumbled bacon, chocolate ganache drizzle, banana slices, or crushed peanuts for extra flair. Get creative and make it your own!
Step 6: Serve
- Slice and serve at room temperature. Pair with a glass of milk or coffee for the ultimate treat.
Why This Recipe Works
- Banana Moisture : Mashed bananas keep the cake tender and flavorful.
- Peanut Butter Creaminess : The rich, nutty frosting complements the sweet banana cake perfectly.
- Customizable Toppings : Bacon, chocolate, or nuts add texture and elevate the flavors.
Variations to Try
- Add Chocolate Layers : Spread a thin layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for a PB&J-inspired twist.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your peanut butter is GF-friendly.
- Vegan Version : Substitute with vegan cake mix, plant-based butter, and dairy-free peanut butter.
- Mini Cakes : Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for individual servings.
- Breakfast Twist : Serve slices warmed up with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Tips for Success
- Use Ripe Bananas : The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter : Stir just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Romantic Touch : Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for elegance.
- Brunch Staple : Pair with coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Party Platter : Serve alongside other desserts like brownies, cookies, or tarts for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Elvis Presley Cake (Jailhouse Rock Cake) is a celebration of bold flavors, creamy textures, and effortless indulgence, offering a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. With its customizable options, endless charm, and ease of preparation, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress whether you’re cooking for a special occasion, a casual snack, or simply craving something satisfying.
Your Turn! Have you ever made themed cakes or experimented with peanut butter-banana combinations? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below.