Creating Simply Perfect Banana Bread is a straightforward process. Just follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mash Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Add Butter: Stir in the melted butter to the mashed bananas until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: Add baking soda and salt to the mixture and stir to combine.
5. Incorporate Sugar: Mix in the sugar until fully incorporated.
6. Add Egg and Vanilla: Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract until everything is blended.
7. Add Flour: Gently mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Do not overmix.
8. Optional Add-ins: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
9. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading evenly.
10. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

These simple steps will guide you in making this incredible banana bread with ease and success!