Mash the bananas in the pan.
Add maple syrup, neutral oil, and vanilla paste/extract to the mashed bananas and mix well.
Add self-rising flour, baking powder (if using all-purpose flour), baking soda (if using all-purpose flour), salt (optional), and cinnamon (optional) to the wet ingredients.
Mix the dry ingredients, being careful not to over-blend the flour.
Add optional toppings like chocolate chips and dates.
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Bake for 30 minutes.
Perform a toothpick test to check for doneness.
