Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed

1/3 cup melted butter

3/4 cup sugar

1 beaten egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking soda

Pinch of salt

1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour

Optional Add-ins:

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a spiced variant

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Mix the bananas and butter: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until completely smooth. Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas.

Mix in the sugar, egg, and vanilla: Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture and stir until well combined.

Add the dry ingredients: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in. Add the flour last, mix just until incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your banana bread is soft and tender.

Add any optional ingredients: Fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon, if using.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour at 350°F (175°C), or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for a few minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serve and enjoy! Slice and serve as is, toast it up for a crunchy exterior, or spread with a bit of butter for an extra indulgent treat.

Baking Tips:

Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.

You can use a fork to mix your batter to keep it nice and fluffy.

Try adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a deeper flavor.