4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1 cup table molasses
2 cups boiling water
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda

Mix flour, sugars, salt, and butter until it resembles coarse crumbs using a pastry blender, two knives or your fingers.

Measure out 1 cup of the crumbs and set it aside to use for the topping.

In a measuring cup, combine the molasses, boiling water, and baking soda. Gradually add to the major part of the crumbs and stir until well blended.

Pour into a greased 9x12-inch baking pan or two layer cake pans.

Sprinkle the cup of crumbs evenly over the top.

Bake in a 350°F oven for 55 minutes (9x12-inch) or 40 minutes (layer cake pans).