Sift together 2 c. flour; 1 teasp. salt; 1/2 c. sugar; 2 teasps. baking powder OR 1/2 teasp. baking soda and 1 teasp. cream of tarter.
Stir in 1 c. milk; 2 tblsps. melted shortening, margarine or oil.
Makes a very stiff batter.
If you must have an egg, put it in the measuring cup and beat it with a fork; then add milk to 1 C.
Turn into a greased 8" X 8" pan, spread on topping is desired and bake at 375F to 425F for 20 to 30 minutes. Less time at a higher heat.
Bake plain and split for shortcake.
Top with cinnamon and sugar, chopped nuts, add some grated orange or lemon peel to it.
I suppose it could also be baked like drop biscuits or muffins, but there is not enough fat to drop into paper muffin cups; it will stick.
A quick cobbler:
In a 13" X 9" X 2" pan, place enough filling for two berry pies. Bake until hot and bubbly. If these are fresh or frozen and not the canned stuff, you may have to stir a few times. Drop the batter over the top and finish baking until done. Do not thin the batter or it will sink.