1 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp. baking powder
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. shortening
2 eggs
2 tbsp. milk
1 c. ripe banana, mashed
1/4 c. nuts, chopped (optional)

In mixing bowl stir together flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda; set aside.

In mixer bowl cream sugar and shortening with electric mixer until light, scraping sides of bowl often. Add egg, 1 at a time and milk, beating until smooth and fluffy after each addition. Add flour mixture and mashed banana alternately to creamed mixture, beating until smooth after each addition. Fold in chopped nuts, if desired.

Turn batter into lightly greased 8 x 4 x 2 inch loaf pan. Bake in 350 degree oven for 60 to 65 minutes or until wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool bread in pan 10 minutes. Remove from pan; cool thoroughly on wire rack. For easier slicing, wrap bread in foil and store overnight. Makes 1 loaf. (Recipe may be doubled.)