Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Fold Ingredients Together:
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Add walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.
Bake the Banana Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
