Ultimate Banana Bread Ingredients 1 3/4 cups unbleached all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon table salt 5 large very ripe bananas, peeled 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly 2 large eggs 3/4 cup light brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup walnuts , toasted and coarsely chopped (optional) 2