Banana Spice Cookies

• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2)
• 2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cloves
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

Mix together the shortening, sugar, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer for a smoother finish. Stir in the banana and beat more. Sift the flour into a bowl, then combine it with the other dry ingredients minus the nuts. Mix together until even, then pour into the butter mix. Stir in nuts once the mixture is uniform. Chill for one hour. Preheat the oven to 375º F. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls about 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes and frost with a thin white icing.