How do you make shortcake?

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 2 teaspoons baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1 egg

- 1 cup milk

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

3. Use your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Stir in the sugar until combined.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and vanilla extract.

6. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

7. Drop the batter by rounded tablespoons onto a greased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake the shortcakes for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the shortcakes cool completely before serving.

Here are some tips for making shortcake:

* To make sure the shortcakes are tender, don't overmix the batter.

* If you don't have any unsalted butter, you can use salted butter and omit the salt from the recipe.

* You can add any other ingredients you like to your shortcake, such as fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts.

* Shortcake is best eaten fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.