This Easy Banana Nut Bread recipe gives us what we need right now: options and freedom. Add what you have, add what you will and swap it what you might have on hand. This banana bread bakes up a delicious crumb, that is perfectly sweet, spiced with the perfect amount of add-ins.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour a 8x4-inch or 9x5-inch loaf pan; and set aside.I also like to put a piece of parchment that spans just the center length with its ends coming out for easy release.
Place the bananas on a cutting board and mash them using a fork. I find this the easiest way to mash 'em up.
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, baking soda, oil (or butter), sugar, vanilla extract, eggs and salt. Fold in the flour, until just combined, being sure not to over mix. Next, fold in nuts (if using), the seeds (if using) and chocolate chips (if using).
Add the Topping (if you like):
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If you like, you can add a sliced banana on the top, along with a sprinkling of seeds as garnish. Transfer to the oven to bake for 55 to 60 minutes, until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then invert the loaf and cool it on a cooling rack. The banana bread will stay delicious and hydrated for up to 5 days when securely wrapped in plastic wrap.
To Freeze Banana Bread: Cool completely to room temperature. Wrap tightly in two layers of plastic wrap, label, date it and transfer to the freezer for up to 3 months.