Follow these clear steps to create your Classic Moist Banana Bread:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan.
- Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until smooth.
- Mix Butter: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until well combined.
- Add Baking Soda and Salt: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture and stir in.
- Mix Sugar and Egg: Add the granulated sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined.
- Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
- Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in the walnuts or chocolate chips into the mixture.
- Pour into Loaf Pan: Transfer the batter to the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center.
- Cool: Once done, remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
This step-by-step guide will ensure you create a flawlessly moist banana bread that is sure to impress.