Step 1

Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating just until blended after each addition.

Step 2

Combine flour and next 2 ingredients; gradually add to butter mixture, beating at low speed just until blended. Stir in bananas and pecans. Spoon batter into a greased and floured 9- x 5-inch loaf pan.

Step 3

Place pan in a cold oven. Set oven to 300°F. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until a long wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean and sides pull away from the pan.  Cool bread in pan on a wire rack 5 minutes; remove from pan, and slice.