Add all dry ingredients into one bowl and wet ingredients into a mixing bowl. I use my stand mixer.
Mix well in both bowls and slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ones until they are mixed.
If adding 1/2 c. nuts, mini chocolate chips, or dried cranberries fold them in at the very end.
Line 9x5 loaf pan with parchment paper and pour batter in. Put into a preheated oven at 325 for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until toothpick comes out mostly clean in the center. *For muffins fill 3/4 of way full and bake for 18-20 minutes until middle springs back when gently touched with a finger.
Do not remove from pan until cooled so it can continue to bake in the pan and stay moist.