Buttermilk Cheese Biscuits

2 cup flour
2 tbspns. sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. cream of tarter
1/2 cup cold butter
1 cup buttermilk

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for cheese biscuits.

Mix first six ingredients into bowl.  Rub in butter with hands until crumbly.  Pour in buttermilk.  At this point, fold in shredded cheese if desired.  Dough should be soft. 

Roll out on floured surface to about an inch thick or so.  Cut into squares and in small greased rectangular baking dish, place so sides are slightly touching.  Brush with milk and/or top with shredded cheese if desired.  Bake for 12 to 15 minutes in 450 degree oven.