01 - Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until well distributed.
03 - In a large bowl, beat the mashed bananas with melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
04 - Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently fold until just combined, ensuring no flour streaks remain.
05 - Fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips if using, distributing evenly throughout the batter.
06 - Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
07 - Allow banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.