Alton's Perfect Shortcake

2 cups flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons shortening

3/4 cup half and half

Melted butter to brush shortcakes

Berries

Ice cream or whipped cream

Directions

Heat oven 450 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Cut in butter and shortening. Mix in half-and-half. Drop by large spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 15 minutes or until brown. Cool and eat with berries, ice cream and/or whipped cream.