Flaky Shortcakes

Directions

1. 1
   Position rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 450F
2. 2
   Sift flour, 3 tablespoons sugar, baking powder and salt into large bowl.
3. 3
   Add shortening and butter.
4. 4
   Using pastry cutter, cut-in shortening and butter until pea-size pieces form.
5. 5
   Stir together buttermilk and egg, then add to flour mixture.
6. 6
   Stir just until incorporated (dough will be wet and crumbly).
7. 7
   Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead briefly until it holds together.
8. 8
   Pat and roll dough out into a 9x6-inch rectangle.
9. 9
   Using a 3-inch biscuit cutter cut out six biscuits.
10. 10
    Transfer biscuits to ungreased baking sheet (a cushioned or insulated baking sheet works best), spacing biscuits 2-inches apart.
11. 11
    Sprinkle tops with remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar.
12. 12
    Bake until shortcakes are puffed and golden, about 12 minutes.
13. 13
    Serve hot.