1/2 c. shortening
1 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 c. mashed bananas (2-3)
1 1/2 c. sifted flour
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. hot water
1 tsp. vanilla
1 c. chopped pitted dates, optional
1 c. chopped pecans, optional

Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs and mashed bananas. Stir in flour and nutmeg. Dissolve soda in hot water and add to mixture. Stir in vanilla. Add dates and pecans if desired.