Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8x4 or 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla.

Step 3

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

Step 4

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix. Fold in the ½ cup walnuts.

Step 5

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and top with the remaining 2 tablespoons walnuts.

Step 6

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the top springs back to the touch. I like to check the loaf after 40 minutes. If the top is golden brown, I cover it with foil for the remaining bake time to prevent further browning.