1/3 c. shortening
2/3 c. sugar
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1 3/4 c. sifted all-purpose flour
2 3/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 c. nuts, chopped (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat shortening until creamy and glossy, or 2 minutes, at medium speed. Gradually add sugar, beating until light and fluffy after each addition. Add eggs and beat until thick. Sift dry ingredients. Add alternately with bananas. Blend thoroughly. Grease bottom of loaf pan. Turn batter into pan. Bake 60 to 70 minutes, or until sharp knife comes out clean and dry.

For Banana Nut Bread, add nuts to batter.