Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease the loaf tin and line it with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer or whisk for this step, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Mashed Bananas

Fold the mashed bananas into the mixture, stirring gently until well combined. This will add moisture and flavor to the batter.

Step 5: Add the Flour and Baking Powder

Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Fold them into the wet mixture gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 6: Add the Milk

Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the batter, folding it in until the batter reaches a smooth, pourable consistency.

Step 7: Pour into the Tin and Smooth the Top

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Banana Bread

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should feel springy to the touch.

Step 9: Cool the Bread

Allow the banana bread to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Slice and Enjoy

Once the bread has cooled, slice and serve. It’s delicious on its own or with a bit of butter.