1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingers or a pastry blender to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour the milk into the bowl and stir to combine.
5. If using an egg, beat it lightly and add it to the mixture. If not using an egg, simply omit this step.
6. Stir in the grated cheese if desired.
7. On a floured surface, knead the dough until it comes together, then roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
8. Use biscuit cutters to punch out the desired shapes from the dough.
9. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is still slightly soft.
Enjoy your freshly baked fluffy whole wheat biscuits! These delicious treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack, and they pair well with jam, honey, or butter. They're also great for dipping in soup or stew.