Savory Cheddar Biscuits

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup shortening or butter
• 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon sherry (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400ºF. Combine flour, powder, soda, salt, and sugar. Cut in shortening until it resembles coarse meal. Add cheese, milk, sherry, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are moist, but do NOT overblend. Turn dough onto floured surface and knead about 5 times. (Try to handle very little.) Roll dough out to 1/2 inch, and cut 2-inch rounds. Place on ungreased sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.