2 c. flour
3 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
2/3 c. milk
1 egg
1 tbsp. sugar

Sift dry ingredients. Work in shortening until mixture resembles coarse meal. Mix liquid and add to make a soft dough. (Egg and sugar may be omitted if desired.) Turn onto lightly floured board, knead a few seconds, divide in half. Pat one half about 1/4" thick into deep 9" cake pan. Brush top and pat second portion of dough in layer over first. Brush on softened butter and bake 20 minutes in hot oven, 450 degrees.