1
: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2
: Combine in flour, sugar, baking powder and salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Toss cherries into mixture ensuring they are coated with flour. Add chocolate chips if using.
3
: Combine milk and eggs in a separate bowl. Add to flour mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
4
: Place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a square that is 1” (2.5 cm) thick. Cut into 16 pieces.
5
: Arrange scones on prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven 20 to 23 minutes, until lightly golden.