Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), an adjustment from the standard 350°F to counteract high altitude effects.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together 2 cups of flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add an extra tablespoon of flour for altitude.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Adjust the sugar by reducing it by 1-3 tablespoons for altitude.
Add Eggs and Bananas: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then fold in the mashed bananas.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fold in Optional Ingredients: If using, fold in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
Prepare Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Start checking for doneness at 55 minutes due to altitude variations.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
