Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda and cinnamon. In the bowl of stand mixer (or any mixing bowl), beat together bananas, butter and sugar until blended. Sprinkle remaining baking soda on top of the bananas.

Beat in eggs, one at a time. Add the vanilla extract. Add flour mixture and beat until just blended.

Add batter to greased loaf pan (I used baking spray).

Generously spread crushed almonds on surface. I also sprinkled a little turbinado sugar for an extra special crunch.

Bake for 55 minutes, or until toothpick comes up clean when inserted in top center.