Cooking weights and measures

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Step 2.

   In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

3. Step 3.

   In a large bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add 1/2 cup melted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; stir until well combined.

4. Step 4.

   Pour the dry ingredients into the banana mixture and stir with a spatula just until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.

5. Step 5.

   Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) and 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional) until evenly distributed.

6. Step 6.

   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

7. Step 7.

   Let the banana bread cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto the rack to cool completely before slicing.