Classic Sweet Banana Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, mash the overripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Leave some small chunks for texture if desired.

Stir in the melted butter to the mashed bananas.

Mix in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

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

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. If using, fold in the nuts at this point.

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 the banana bread from oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.