If you’ve already run out of ideas for what to serve at your holiday drinks party, think “biscuits” — not your average breakfast biscuits, but these yummy bites from Kerrygold. Laden with sage and walnuts, these buttery bites are a sophisticated alternative to crackers and cheese. The recipe suggests cutting them into 12 pieces, but if you cut them smaller they’re sassy hors d’oeuvres. You’ll find recipes like this and other delicious holiday bites in my Christmas Flavors of Ireland cookbook. Order signed copies at www.irishcook.com

DUBLINER CHEESE BISCUITS WITH SAGE AND WALNUTS

MAKES 12 BISCUITS

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup cold Kerrygold Butter, cut into ½-inch cubes

1 cup shredded Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese

2/3 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

2 teaspoons dried sage

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1. Preheat oven to 450° F. Lightly grease a baking sheet.

2. In medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. With a pastry blender or two knives, cut or work in butter until mixture resembles coarse meal.

3. Stir in 1/2 cup of Dubliner, buttermilk, walnuts, sage and pepper. MIX until mixture forms a ball, adding a little more flour if dough is too sticky.

4. On a floured work surface, press dough into a 1-inch-thick square or circle. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of Dubliner and press lightly into surface. Turn and repeat with remaining cheese. Cut into 12 pieces and place on prepared baking sheet.

5. Bake on center rack of oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.

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