Biscuits

I am getting really into finding good recipes that require common ingrediants that I have because I don't have a whole lot of money so I can't just go and buy all the ingrediants that you only put in one thing. I was really craving biscuits and gravy 2 days ago so I went on a search for a biscuit recipe that didn't require shortening or cream of tarter and I found this one! And it is way good and easy! I love biscuits.. it's probably one of my favorite foods especially with gravy or soup or stew poured on top of them! Yummy!
Biscuits

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon granulated white sugar (optional)
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
3/4 cup milk
1 large egg, lightly beaten

Topping:
1 large egg, lightly beaten with 1 tablespoon milk

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and place rack in center of oven. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. (I just sprayed it with Pam)

In a large mixing bowl, sift or whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs (use pastry blender, two knives, or fingertips). Add the milk and slightly beaten egg and stir until just combined. (The texture should be sticky, moist and lumpy.)

Place mixture on a lightly floured surface and knead the dough gently until it comes together and is a smooth dough.

Roll out dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut out biscuits with a lightly floured round cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg and milk mixture and bake for about 10 - 15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center of the biscuit comes out clean. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack. Serve warm with butter. (Or put sausage gravy on it or potato soup or stew! Mmmm....)

Makes about 12 3-inch biscuits.