BUTTERMILK CINNAMON BREAD

Note: This makes 2 regular-size loaves or 5 mini loaves.

Batter:
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/2 cup melted lard OR vegetable oil
1 3/4 cups sugar
1 pint buttermilk

Topping:
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
3 tablespoons chopped walnuts if desired

In a large mixing bowl combine the flour, soda, and salt.
In a medium mixing bowl combine the lard or oil and sugar. Add the eggs and mix well. Add the buttermilk and mix well. Stir into the flour mixture just until moistened. Will be lumpy.
Fill 2 greased loaf pans 1/3 full (save rest of batter).
Make topping - combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle half the topping mixture over the batter in pans. Top with the remaining batter then remaining topping. Swirl batter with a knife. Sprinke with walnuts.
Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes before removing to racks to cool completely.

Note: File Photo