Everyday Banana Bread

Let’s make it

1. Heat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, stir the mashed bananas, melted butter, and brown sugar together. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture just until no dry flour remains. Fold in the walnuts if using.
5. Pour into the prepared pan. Bake for 55–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out without wet batter. Loosely cover with foil if the top darkens too early.
6. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a rack and cool for another 45 minutes before slicing.

Storing & reheating

Keep well wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze slices for up to 2 months.