Banana Bran Muffins

This is from the box of Quaker natural wheat bran. They're wholesome, not too sweet, and very satisfying. We substituted raisins for banana: roommate Clay agrees that the "bananas are key."

Makes 12 muffins

1/4 c shortening
1/2 c brown sugar, firmly packed
1/4 c molasses
2 eggs, beaten
1 c milk
1 c all purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 c wheat bran
1/2 c chopped banana (or raisins, or a combo)

Cream shortening and sugar together. Add molasses and eggs and beat together well. Add milk, and then bran. Combine flour, baking powder, soda, and salt together. Add to liquid ingredients. Add raisins, if desired. Place in greased muffin pans. Bake in 400 F oven for 18 to 20 minutes.