Banana squares When we were first married, my husband was in the Navy. Stationed in Puerto Rico, we had banana trees growing in our yard, so I found ways to use dozens of ripe bananas at a time. I made these banana squares often. They freeze well and make a great snack to have on hand when friends drop in for coffee. From" Susan Miller of Raleigh North Carolina"

Ingredients 

2 eggs, separated

2/3 cup shortening

1-1/2 cups sugar

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (2 to 3 medium)

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 cup sour milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional

Whipped cream and sliced bananas, optional

Method

In a small mixing bowl, beat egg whites until soft peaks form; set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Beat in egg yolks; mix well. Add bananas.

Combine flour and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition.

Add vanilla. Fold in egg whites. Fold in nuts if desired.

Pour into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes.

Cool on a wire rack. If desired, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a few banana slices.

Yield: 12-16 servings. Editor’s Note: To sour milk, place 1 teaspoon white vinegar in a measuring cup.

Add enough milk to equal 1/4 cup.