1.   Preheat oven to 350ºF.

2. Generously butter two loaf pans. In a stand mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3.    Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda and salt.

4.    With the mixer on low, add the eggs one at a time, beating after adding each egg. Add the bananas, vanilla, buttermilk, and vanilla.

5.    Slowly add the flour mixture until just combined. Then add nuts if desired. (I put nuts into half of the batter and make one loaf with nuts and one without)

6.    Divide evenly into two prepared loaf pans. Bake for approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour (ovens vary).

7.    Remove from oven and turn loaves out on cooling rack immediately and let cool.