1 3/4 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 c. shortening or butter
2/3 c. sugar
2 eggs, well beaten
1 c. ripe mashed bananas (2-3)
Nuts, dates, chocolate chips (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Sift first 4 ingredients. Work shortening with spoon until creamy and fluffy. Add sugar gradually, working until light, add eggs and beat well. Slowly add flour mixture, alternating with bananas. Beat smooth after each addition. Pour into greased loaf pan. Bake 1 hour and 10 minutes. Makes 1 loaf. Can be doubled.