Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105-115°F/40-46°C)
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons / 7g) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon (6g) salt
- 1/4 cup (57g) shortening, chilled
- 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 tablespoon (12g) baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon (1g) baking soda
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted unsalted butter (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, salt, flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- Cut in the chilled shortening and butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky.
- Cover the bowl and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Gently punch down the dough and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits.
- Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let rise for 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Brush with melted butter immediately after baking for extra richness and shine (optional).
- Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.