Follow these straightforward steps to create your very own Foolproof Banana Bread:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 4×8 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. A few lumps are okay; they add texture.
3. Mix in Butter: Stir the melted butter into the mashed bananas until combined.
4. Add Baking Soda and Salt: Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, and mix in thoroughly.
5. Incorporate Sugar: Stir in the sugar, mixing well after adding it. This step adds sweetness and moisture.
6. Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until smooth and evenly blended.
7. Combine with Flour: Gently fold in the flour. Take care not to over-mix; it should just be combined.
8. Optional Add-ins: If you’re using walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
9. Pour into Pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
10. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Following these steps will lead you to an incredible homemade banana bread that will have your taste buds singing!