Baking Powder Biscuits

Directions

1. 1
   Place a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 450 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with two layers of parchment paper.
2. 2
   Set aside.
3. 3
   In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
4. 4
   Rub 2 tablespoons of the butter into the flour with your fingertips, until it is completely absorbed.
5. 5
   Work the remaining butter into the flour until it is in even pieces about the size of a pea.
6. 6
   Gently stir the milk into the flour mixture with a fork to make a loose dough.
7. 7
   Turn the dough out onto a well-floured work surface.
8. 8
   Pat the dough by hand into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle.
9. 9
   Fold the dough in thirds like a business letter.
10. 10
    (For a flakier biscuit repeat this folding a second time.)
11. 11
    Pat the dough into a 5 by 8-inch rectangle about 3/4-inch thick.
12. 12
    Use a 2- to 3-inch round cutter to make 6 biscuits, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
13. 13
    Press together the scraps of dough, cut 2 more biscuits, and place them on the baking sheet.
14. 14
    Make a glaze by mixing the cream and melted butter together in a small bowl.
15. 15
    Lightly brush the tops of the biscuits with the glaze.
16. 16
    Bake until lightly browned, about 15 minutes.
17. 17
    Cool on a rack for 5 minutes before serving.