48 Nostalgic American Dishes That Take Us Back in Time

Dive into the history of cheese balls, not to be mistaken for the puffed corn snacks at your local supermarket. Dusted in herbs and spices, these cheese orbs date back to the 1800s and gained fame in the 1970s. They are perfect companions for crackers and remain a beloved aspect of gourmet spreads.

The origin of the cheese ball dates back to Elder John Leland of Cheshire, Massachusetts, who crafted an immense 1,300-pound cheese ball using milk from 900 cows. This colossal dairy delight, intended as a patriotic gift, went to President Jefferson at the White House. Today, cheese balls have shrunk in size but remain a staple at parties and on charcuterie boards.