Melt butter, then set aside for at least 5 minutes to cool. Meanwhile, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl.

Measure buttermilk into a 2 cup liquid measuring cup. Stir in the melted and cooled butter. Lumps of butter should form. Pour the buttermilk mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently till just moistened.

At this point, you have two choices. For drop biscuits, just place scoops of dough on a lightly greased cookie sheet.

For traditional biscuits, generously flour the counter and pat the dough out till it is about an inch thick. Cut into squares with a knife, and place on cookie sheets.

Bake at 475° for about 12 minutes or till lightly browned. Serve warm.