Cream Biscuits

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400F.
2. 2
   Stir together in a large bowl: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 4 teaspoons sugar (optional), 2 teaspoons baking powder.
3. 3
   Add: 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) cold butter, cut into small pieces.
4. 4
   Cut the butter into the flour with your fingers or a pastry blender until they are the size of small peas.
5. 5
   Measure: 3/4 cup heavy cream.
6. 6
   Remove 1 tablespoon and set aside.
7. 7
   Lightly stir in the remainder of the cream with a fork until the mixture just comes together.
8. 8
   Without overworking it, lightly knead the dough a couple of times in the bowl, turn it out onto a lightly floured board, and roll out about 3/4 inch thick.
9. 9
   Cut into eight 1 1/2-inch circles or squares.
10. 10
    Reroll the scraps if necessary.
11. 11
    Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and lightly brush the tops with the reserved tablespoon of cream.
12. 12
    Bake for 17 minutes or until cooked through and golden.