Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. 2
   In a large mixing bowl, mash the peeled bananas thoroughly with a fork until smooth with only small lumps remaining.
3. 3
   Stir the melted butter into the mashed banana until fully combined.
4. 4
   Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
5. 5
   Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir to combine.
6. 6
   Add the flour all at once and fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix — a few streaks of flour are fine.
7. 7
   Fold in any optional add-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon) if using.
8. 8
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
9. 9
   Bake for 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
10. 10
    Remove from oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.