1 3/4 c. sifted flour
2 3/4 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. chopped nuts
1/3 c. shortening
2/3 c. sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 c. mashed ripe bananas
1/4 c. raisins (optional)

Blend together in bowl; flour, baking powder, salt and chopped nuts. Cream shortening, add sugar, eggs, flour mixture and bananas. Fold in raisins and pour into a 4 1/2 x 8 1/2 x 3 inch loaf pan (grease bottom only). Bake at 350 degrees for 60 to 70 minutes.