Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
• In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth.
  
• Add the melted butter or oil to the mashed bananas and stir to combine.
  
• Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract to the banana mixture. Mix well.
• Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the banana mixture and stir to incorporate.
• Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  
• If using, fold in any optional add-ins such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or ground cinnamon.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
  
• Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.