Step 1

Pre-heat oven to 325F degrees.

Step 2

Grease or spray a deep-dish 9 or 9-1/2 inch pie or cake pan. Set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, place the flour, salt, and shortening or butter/shortening. Using fingers or a pastry blender, work into fine crumbs. Add the brown sugar, baking soda, and cream of tartar and blend well again; crumbs will "clump" if you squeeze some together in the palm of your hand.

Step 4

Make a well in the middle and add the beaten egg, the soured milk, and the vanilla, if using. Stir with a wooden spoon until blended but not smooth, folding in the dry mix.

Step 5

Scoop batter into the prepared pan; smooth top somewhat. If using topping, cut the 2 Tablespoons butter into thin pats, place in scattered spots across the top of the dough, then sprinkle with the cinnamon/sugar mix to your taste. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or just until a cake tester comes out clean.

Step 6

Remove from oven; cut in wedges, serve warm or room-temperature. Store leftovers covered.