2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter or shortening
3/4 cup buttermilk or low-fat milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup raisins (optional)

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Sift together flour, baking powder and salt. Chop butter or shortening into pea-size pieces, and cut into flour, so that dough is crumbly.

Add buttermilk or low-fat milk and stir, until sugar is dissolved, and butter is completely incorporated into dough.

Fold in chocolate chips and raisins if desired just until evenly distributed. Place on a floured surface and roll flat with a floured rolling pin.

Cut out with floured biscuit cutters, or the top of a glass. Place on a greased or lined baking sheet.

Bake at 450°F for for 8 to 10 minutes, or golden brown on top.

Remove from heat and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm.

Submitted by: Daniel Lee Mishkin