4 cups flour
2 tablespoons baking powder
1/2 cup shortening
1/4 cup butter
1 1/2 cups shredded or finely crumbled sharp white cheddar cheese
2-3 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups milk
1 beaten egg
1 teaspoon water

Heat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease baking sheet. Combine dry ingredients. Cut in shortening and butter till mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cheese and pepper and mix well. Make a well in the center and add milk all at once. Stir just till moistened. Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface. Quickly knead 10-12 strokes till almost smooth. Divide in half. Roll or pat each half into 6 inch square about 1 inch thick. Cut into 2 inch squares. Combine egg and water. Brush tops of biscuits and place on prepared sheet. Bake 13-15 minutes till tops are golden.
Make Ahead
Cool completely. Wrap well and freeze up to 3 months. To serve, wrap frozen biscuits in foil and bake in 300°F oven for 20-25 minutes till warm.