Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the melted butter until well combined.
- Add the baking soda and salt. Mix until incorporated.
- Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. If using, add the ground cinnamon for added flavor.
Step 3: Combine with Dry Ingredients
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- If desired, fold in the chopped nuts and/or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
- Remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your moist banana bread plain or with butter!
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread:
- Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Storage: Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Variations: Experiment with adding other mix-ins like dried fruits, coconut, or different spices to make it your own!
Enjoy your Moist Banana Bread as a delicious treat any time of the day!