Banana Loaf Bread

Directions

1. 1
   I found this recipe in the Chicago Tribune a few years ago and have had good reviews from my family. I'd also stud it with mini-chocolate chip morsels after it cools off.
2. 2
   Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Sift together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. 3
   Beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer on high speed until light, 2 minutes.
4. 4
   Add the eggs, one at a time, and the vanilla, mixing well after each addition. Stop the mixer and add the bananas.
5. 5
   Mix lightly. fold in the dry ingredients and nuts, mixing just until combined.
6. 6
   Transfer batter to prepared pan.
7. 7
   Bake until toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 55 to 60 minutes. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes then invert onto a wire rack. Cool completely.
8. 8
   Sprinkle chocolate chip morsels on top, if desired, before slicing.