Cheese Balls

A cheese ball is an American hors d'hors d'oeuvre that is a type of cheese spread. It first became popular in the 1940s, fell out of fashion and then had a resurgence in popularity in the 21st century.

The cheese ball is typically made from grated hard cheese and softened cream cheese, sometimes with some sort of binder such as mayonnaise; the mixture is shaped, chilled to resolidify and often rolled in nuts, seeds, or herbs to provide a decorative finish. It is often served with crackers or crudites at holiday parties in the United States and Canada. Cheese balls are sometimes formed into wheels or logs rather than balls or shaped and decorated to represent a variety of items such as owls or pineapples.

Legend has it that a Massachusetts farmer created the first cheese ball in recorded history in 1801 and presented to President Jefferson at the White House. Beyond delicious, cheese balls have a good balance of nutrients, with high-quality carbs and fat, rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins. So, we can certainly say it's a healthy and nutritious snack.