Preheat oven to 425°F.

Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.

Incorporate Butter: Cut the cold, diced butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces.

Add Milk: Pour in the cold milk and mix gently until just combined. Don't overmix.

Shape Dough: Turn dough out onto a floured surface. Gently form into a ball and flatten to about 1/2 inch thick.

Cut Biscuits: Use a biscuit cutter or glass (2 1/2 to 3 inches) to cut out biscuits. Press straight down without twisting.

Bake: Transfer to a baking sheet (or skillet) and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.