Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan.

Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl.

Add the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined.

Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.

Transfer it to a wire rack, allow it to cool further, and slice before serving.