Bread Recipe #1 - Banana Bread

The first recipe of the new year is one I have made for many years, quite possibly the first bread I ever prepared. I've tried other banana bread recipes, but have always returned to this one. The important factor is to make sure your bananas are overripe (the softness of them makes the bread moister). Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup butter or margarine, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 cups all-purpose flour, 3 bananas, sliced thin, 1/2 cup chopped nuts, if desired (any kind will work), 1 egg, 1 teaspoon vanilla, few whole nuts for the top (or chopped, if you like). Instructions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a loaf pan by spraying with cooking spray and sprinkling a little flour on bottom and sides; set aside. Place all ingredients, except whole nuts, in a large mixing bowl. Beat with a hand mixer or standing mixer on medium speed until well combined, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape into prepared pan and smooth top. Place nuts on top in design of choice. Bake in preheated 350 degree oven for 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to 300 degrees and continue baking for 30-40 minutes, or until top is browned and toothpick inserted comes out clean. Place on cooling rack for 10 minutes; run a knife around edges of pan before inverting onto a plate or platter. Allow to cool completely or serve slightly warm, spreading each slice with butter or jam. Makes 1 loaf. "Rolling in the dough!"