10 1/2 c. flour
1/4 c. plus 1 tbsp. baking powder
1 tbsp. plus 1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 c. shortening

Mix all ingredients except shortening. Cut in shortening until mixture resembles fine crumbs. Cover, label and store in airtight container at room temperature no longer than 3 months.

Makes 12 cups.

BISCUITS:

Mix 2 1/4 cups mix and 3/4 cup milk. Mix and knead 10 times. Cut with biscuit cutter and bake 10-12 minutes at 450 degrees.

VARIATIONS: Add 1/2 cup cheese, 1/3 cup peanut butter; decrease milk to 1 tablespoon and stir in 1 cup sour cream and 2 tablespoons snipped chives.

MUFFINS:

2 c. baking mix
2/3 c. milk
1/4 c. sugar
1 egg
2 tbsp. butter, melted

Mix ingredients, beat for 30 seconds. Fill muffin cups and bake 15 minutes at 400 degrees. Add 1 cup fruit and cinnamon. Roll in butter and then cinnamon and sugar (for cinnamon muffins).

OATMEAL-RAISIN:

3/4 c. quick-cooking oats
1/2 c. raisins
1/2 tsp. ground allspice

BACON-HERB:

Decrease sugar to 1 tablespoon and stir in 4 slices bacon, fried and crumbled, 1 tablespoon parsley flakes and 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning.

AMBROSIA:

Add 8 1/4 oz. coconut.