Cheddar Black Pepper Biscuits

In a mixing bowl, sift together flours, sugar, baking powder, cream of tartar and salt. Cut in shortening and butter cubes until mixture resembles coarse meal. Add the cheddar and black pepper and toss to combine. In another bowl, combine egg and buttermilk and beat lightly with a fork. Add to flour mixture all at once, stirring enough to make a soft dough.

Turn the dough out onto a floured board and knead about 15 times. Roll or pat out into a 1-inch thickness. Cut into 2-inch rounds using a biscuit cutter or cut into 2×2-inch squares. Reshape and roll dough to create more biscuits with excess scraps. Brush tops with a bit of heavy cream and a sprinkle of fresh ground black pepper.

Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees F for 12-15 minutes. Serve immediately with softened butter or top with bacon and a fried egg as breakfast sandwiches.