Fool's Gold Loaf
A legendary Colorado creation from the Colorado Mine Company restaurant in Denver. This indulgent sandwich features a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with an entire jar of peanut butter, grape jelly, and a pound of bacon. Made famous when Elvis flew from Memphis to Denver just to eat it.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Cook the bacon: Lay bacon strips on a baking sheet. Bake at 400F for 18-22 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, cook in batches in a skillet over medium heat. Drain on paper towels.
Prepare the loaf: Preheat oven to 350F. Using a bread knife, cut the top off the sourdough loaf (about 1/3 from the top) to create a lid. Set aside.
Hollow out the bread: Carefully hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving about 1 inch of bread on all sides and the bottom. Reserve the bread innards for another use (breadcrumbs, croutons).
Toast the loaf: Brush the inside of the hollowed loaf and the cut side of the lid with softened butter. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
Spread the peanut butter: While the loaf is still warm, spread a thick layer of peanut butter on the bottom and sides of the hollowed loaf. Use about half the jar.
Add the jelly: Spread a generous layer of grape jelly over the peanut butter. The warmth of the bread will help them meld together slightly.
Layer the bacon: Arrange the crispy bacon strips in a layer over the jelly. Cover the entire surface, overlapping as needed to fit all the bacon.
Add more layers: Spread remaining peanut butter over the bacon, then add another layer of grape jelly. If using bananas, add slices now.
Seal and warm: Place the bread lid on top. Return to oven for 5 minutes to warm through and help everything meld together.
Slice and serve: Remove from oven and let rest 2 minutes. Cut into thick wedges like a pie. Serve immediately while warm, with plenty of napkins!
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- The Elvis legend: In 1976, Elvis flew from Memphis to Denver with friends specifically to eat this sandwich at the Colorado Mine Company. They consumed it right at the airport and flew home.
- Share it: This sandwich was designed for sharing. At 8,000+ calories, it's definitely not a solo endeavor!
- Try different jellies: While grape is traditional, strawberry or blackberry jam also work wonderfully.
- Add bananas: Elvis was famous for his love of peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Add sliced bananas for the full Elvis experience.
- Maple bacon: Use maple-candied bacon for an extra sweet-savory dimension.
- Make it smaller: For a more reasonable portion, use a smaller boule or round bread roll and scale ingredients accordingly.