Shortcake with Fresh Rhubarb Sauce

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Grease an 8-in. square baking pan. In a heatproof bowl, cover rhubarb with boiling water; let stand 5 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
2. Meanwhile, in a bowl, cream shortening and sugar until blended. Beat in egg. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda and cinnamon; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition. Fold in drained rhubarb and walnuts. Transfer to prepared pan; bake 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack.
3. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine sugar and water; bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Stir in rhubarb; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 10-12 minutes or until rhubarb is softened. If desired, stir in cinnamon. Serve over warm shortcake.