Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips, if using, for extra crunch and flavor.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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