Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting the pan
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the loaf pan to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Mash the bananas in a separate bowl until smooth. (A few small lumps are okay).
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the mashed bananas, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
  7. Gently fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
  10. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.