biscuits

Method:

2 c. all-purpose flour

2.5 tsp. baking powder

½ tsp. coarse salt

¾ c. shredded cheddar cheese

1/3 c. chives, minced

6 tbl. cold unsalted butter, diced

¾ c. whole milk

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cheese and chives in a large mixing bowl. Add the diced butter and, using the tips of your fingers, combine the flour and fat until the fat’s been rendered into pea-sized pieces. Add the milk and quickly bring together the dough with a wooden spoon. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface and gently knead until it clings together nicely.

Roll the dough out into a disk about ½ inch thick. Dip a biscuit cutter or a 2 inch glass into flour and cut the dough into rounds. Transfer the rounds to a lightly buttered baking sheet (or one lined with a Silpat mat).

Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden. Transfer the biscuits to a wire rack to cool. Serve warm with a pat of butter surrounded by maple syrup.