Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, stir the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla, mixing until just combined.

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture. If using nuts, fold them in now.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 15 minutes.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.