Cheddar Scones

1-3/4 c. flour
1 T. sugar
2 t. baking powder
3/4 t. salt
1/4 c. cold butter
1 c. (4 oz.) finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 lg. egg, beaten
2/3 c. half & half or buttermilk
1 T. butter, melted


Combine first four ingredients in large bowl; cut in butter until crumbly.  Stir in cheese.  Stir together half & half or buttermilk and egg.  Gradually add flour until moistened.  Turn dough onto floured surface; knead 3 or 4 times.  Roll into ball.  Pat dough in a circle and cut into 8 pieces.  Put on ungreased baking sheet; bake at 400 for 16-18 minutes.  Remove from oven; brush with melted butter.  For smaller scones, make two balls from the dough and cut into 16 pieces.  These freeze nicely.  They taste great with a salad lunch!