Easy Banana Bread

1Preheat oven and prep pan: Position an oven rack in the middle and preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Grease and flour an 8 ½” x 4 ½” (1-pound) loaf pan, or grease it and line it with a sheet of parchment paper. (See tips below for using a larger pan).

2Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this aside.

3Prepare the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, use a fork to mash the bananas into a chunky paste. Then, whisk in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until everything is well blended.

4Make the batter: Using a rubber spatula, add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two parts. Stir until the flour disappears and the batter is smooth. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

5Bake the banana bread: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a thin knife inserted into the center comes out clean.

6Cool completely: Transfer the loaf pan to a wire rack and cool for 5 minutes. Unmold the bread and let it cool completely before slicing.