Cream shortening, sugar and vanilla together in a stand mixer, then add eggs and beat until well combined. Sift flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon together and add half of the dry ingredients, then the half and half, then the remaining dry ingredients. When well incorporated, add the bananas and mix into batter. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts if using. Pour into a greased 9 x 5 loaf pan and bake at 350 degrees until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about an hour. Let cool in pan before removing.
Notes
To make removal from the pan easier, spray pan with cooking spray, then line the bottom with a piece of parchment paper. Spray the paper itself, then pour the batter into the pan. Discard paper when removing the bread from the pan.
Recipe by Cooking With MicheleĀ® at https://cookingwithmichele.com/2012/08/moms-banana-bread-done-my-way/