3/4 c. shortening
1 1/2 c. sugar
1 1/2 c. mashed ripe bananas (2 to 3)
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. buttermilk or sour milk
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

Add sugar to shortening gradually; cream well. Add remaining ingredients and blend well. Pour into 2 greased and floured loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-45 minutes.