1/3 c. butter
1/2 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. mashed ripe banana
1/2 c. chopped walnuts (optional)

Grease and flour loaf pan. Cream together shortening and sugar with electric mixer. Add eggs; beat well. Set aside.

Sift flour, baking powder, soda and salt. Mash bananas with a fork in a separate bowl. Add dry ingredients to creamy mixture alternately with bananas. Blend well after each addition. If you like nuts, add to mixture. Pour into greased loaf pan.

Bake at 350°F for about 40 to 45 minutes. Remove from pan. Cool on rack.

Makes 1 loaf.