Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly risen loaf.
Prepare the Loaf Pan:
Lightly grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mash the Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the 2 ripe bananas with a fork or whisk until smooth. A few small lumps are okay—they add texture!
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add the melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk everything together until well combined.
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
Fold the Batter Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, gently folding with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the bread tender.
Add Optional Mix-Ins:
If you’re using chocolate chips, nuts, or spices, fold them in now for an extra layer of flavor.
Pour and Smooth the Batter:
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with the spatula.
Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve:
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.