Modern Maryland Biscuits

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups All-purpose flour (Original recipe calls for 1 pint flour)
• 0.33 cup Lard, chilled (Can substitute with chilled butter or shortening)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cup Milk
• 0.5 cup Water, ice cold
• 2 tablespoons Butter, melted (For brushing)

Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. 2Cut the chilled lard into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3Combine the milk and ice water. Gradually add the liquid to the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. 4Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead the dough a few times, then pat it into a rectangle. Fold the dough in thirds like a letter, then pat it out again. Repeat this folding process 4-5 times. This creates layers in the biscuits.
5. 5Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 2-inch biscuit cutter to cut out biscuits. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. 6Brush the tops of the biscuits with melted butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.