Banana Squares - Gail Pearson Lithgow

2 eggs, separated
2/3 cup shortening
1 ½ cups sugar
1 cup mashed bananas (2-3 medium)
1 ½ cups all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1/4 cup sour milk*
1/2 tsp. vanila extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
whipped topping

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 in a grased 13 x 9 x 2 baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Garnish with whipped topping.

*To sour milk, place 1 tsp. white vinegar in a measuring cup. Add enough milk to equal ¼ cup.