3 very ripe bananas, medium/large in size
1/2 cup unsalted butter (8 tablespoons) at room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs at room temperature, slightly beaten
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional
1 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup raisins
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour a 9 x 5 x 2 1/2" bread loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mash the bananas with a fork, until the consistency of chunky applesauce, and add to the butter/sugar mixture along with the two eggs and vanilla, and mix until well blended.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until blended. Add to the banana mixture and stir until combined. If adding the walnuts and/or raisins, stir them in now.
5. Spread into the prepared loaf pan and bake 350 degrees for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use a butter knife to loosen the sides of the bread and remove from the pan onto a wire rack. Let cool completely.