2 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup shortening
1 egg in measuring cup with milk to equal 2/3 cup liquid

Preheat oven to 450°F.

Combine dry ingredients. Add shortening and cut in until well blended and the mixture resembles meal. Add egg and milk. Stir into flour mixture until there are no dry particles.

Floured a clean work surface (a large silicone mat or pastry board). Turn out mixture onto work surface and knead very gently for a moment until dough looks (nearly) smooth. DO NOT OVER HANDLE.

Roll out 1/2-inch thick. Cut out using a flour-dipped biscuit or cookie cutter (about 2 1/4-inches); bake 8-10 minutes or until barely brown. Brush tops with heavy cream or melted butter. Cool on wire rack.

If the biscuits are cut larger, they will take a little longer to bake; to avoid burning, reduce heat to 375°F after 5 minutes.

Yields approximately 1 dozen.

Submitted by: Carolyn Hallisey