Better Biscuits

Better than what? well, better than my old recipe! Make sure that you handle the dough as little as possible once the liquid is added. Add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese before the buttermilk for a doubly good mix. *later edit* i noticed that folks have different expectations of biscuits so i want to clarify. These are not meant to be crumbly. I do like those kind, but this recipe is more flaky. I am adjusting a few things on here to accommodate things i have learned in the 12 years since i posted this.

Steps

Heat oven to 450 degrees.

Sift together dry ingredients.

Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add just enough milk to moisten.

Gather the dough in a ball and knead very lightly until it is all together and fairly smooth.

Do not over knead.

This may take a little practice to get right.

Pat the dough lightly with finger.

Using a knife or pastry blade , cut into squares.

This makes the most tender biscuits , but if you want you can cut them into circles and reuse the dough until all gone.

The later biscuits to be cut out will be slightly less tender than the first.

Place on a cookie sheet and allow to rest for 5 to 10 minutes.

Bake for 10 to 15 minutes , until tops are golden.

Ingredients

all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, shortening, buttermilk