Classic Banana Bread with Baking Powder

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. Aim for a creamy texture with no large chunks.

Add the melted butter into the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.

Stir in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully integrated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

If using, fold in the chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

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

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.