Cream the shortening, sugar, and eggs. Stir in the banana. Add the buttermilk and vanilla. Measure the flour, baking soda, and salt. Blend together and then add to the creamed mixture. Add nuts if desired. Drop by rounded tablespoon 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Bake at 350 for 10 minutes. Frost with cream cheese frosting
Directions Cream Cheese Frosting:
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese with an electric mixer. With the mixer on low speed, add the powdered sugar a cup at a time until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla.