Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8 or 9-inch baking pan with nonstick spray or parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.

Mash the ripe bananas until smooth in a separate bowl and fold them into the wet ingredients.

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, adding pecans if desired.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spread evenly, and sprinkle granulated sugar on top.

Bake for 45-50 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy.