Bayou Banana Bread

1/2 c. butter

3/4 c. sugar

2 eggs

1 t. vanilla

2 c. flour

1 1/2 t. baking powder

1/2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. salt

1/2 t. cinnamon

1/4 t. allspice

1/4 t. cloves

1 c. mashed ripe bananas

1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)

1. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Blend in eggs and vanilla.
3. Add combined dry ingredients to creamed mixture alternately with bananas mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in nuts.
5. Pour into greased and floured 9x5 inch loaf pan.  
6. Bake at 350° for 55 to 60 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.