Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (plain flour)
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g or 1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar (caster sugar)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (approximately 3 medium) mashed ripe bananas (240g)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (for topping) - optional

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the mashed bananas until just combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
  8. Sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired.
  9. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  10. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.