A Sweet Old-Fashioned Southern Quick Bread with Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Sally Linn Bread is a classic Southern quick bread known for its soft texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and sweet buttery topping. Recipes like this were often passed down through generations and baked in home kitchens for special gatherings, Sunday dinners, and comforting everyday treats.
This version from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon creates a tender, flavorful bread with a rich cinnamon-brown sugar topping that makes every bite feel nostalgic and homemade. Perfect served warm with coffee, tea, or a little butter melted over the top.
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4-1/2 Tablespoons shortening
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed firmly)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 Tablespoon butter (melted)
Step-by-Step Instruction
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, stirring until everything is fully combined into a smooth batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the batter.
- Bake at 400°F for approximately 25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.
Serves 6–8
Closing Summary / Pro Tips
Sally Linn Bread is soft, lightly sweet, and topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar finish.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
The cinnamon topping creates a delicious caramelized crust while baking.
This quick bread pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or warm butter.
💡 Pro Tip: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and Southern flavor.
About the Creator
Ethel Rayson Dixon, a Louisiana native, shares recipes inspired by generations of Southern home cooking. Her cookbook highlights comforting dishes rooted in Black culinary traditions and celebrates the warmth of homemade meals prepared with simple ingredients and care.
Ethel Rayson Dixon | Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from Big Mama’s Old Black Pot Recipes by Ethel Rayson Dixon.
Find more amazing recipes like this in the book, available through local booksellers and online retailers.
