Classic Paula Deen Banana Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. You should have about 1 1/2 cups of mashed bananas.

Add the softened butter and granulated sugar to the mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.