2 c. sifted all-purpose flour
1 1/2 c. brown sugar, packed
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 egg
1 c. buttermilk
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. (1 stick) butter
1 tsp. salt (optional)

Mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, and butter with pastry blender or hands until fine crumbs are formed. Set aside 1/2 cup crumbs for topping.

Beat together egg, buttermilk and baking soda. Add to crumb mixture and beat well. Pour into greased and floured 9 or 10-inch square pan. Bake at 350 degrees until batter is raised, about 15 or 20 minutes. Sprinkle reserved crumbs on top and continue baking until cake tester comes out clean, 35 to 45 minutes.