Cheddar-Black Pepper Biscuits

Ingredients

• 1.5 teaspoons double-acting baking powder 
• 1  egg white lightly beaten
• 2 cups flour all-purpose
• 0.5 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper divided
• 2 tablespoons butter chilled cut into small pieces
• 0.3 teaspoon salt 
• 3 ounces cheddar cheese shredded extra-sharp
• 0.8 cup skim milk 

Equipment

• bowl
• baking sheet
• oven
• blender
• cookie cutter

Directions

1. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a bowl; cut in margarine with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal.
2. Add cheese; toss well.
3. Add milk, stirring just until dry ingredients are moistened.
4. Turn dough out onto a well-floured surface, and knead 4 or 5 times.
5. Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness; cut with a 2-inch decorative cookie cutter.
6. Place biscuits 1 inch apart on baking sheets coated with cooking spray, and brush with egg white; sprinkle with remaining pepper.
7. Bake at 425 for 15 minutes or until lightly browned.