A scoop of fun
WORDS and PHOTOS Liam Stretch
With two gelato cafés in central Christchurch, Rollickin is famous for its desserts and has developed a reputation for its unique and whimsical flavours.
But how do they come up with these amazing concoctions? Avenues had a chat with the creators behind these creamy treats.
The team at Rollickin is passionate about where their product comes from, and they only use high-end ingredients and clean-label products.
Using fantastic ingredients (seven of which are secret), the chefs whip up fresh gelato each day, churning creamy organic milk into the perfect density. With less air than ice cream, Rollickin’s gelato has a richer flavour. This velvety mix is then introduced to layers of house-made inclusions, like gingerbread, shortbread, vanilla sponge, fudge sauce, berry compote, and even for a recent special in honour of QE2, scone! It’s quite a science to create inclusions that taste great, work in with the creamy gelato, and don’t freeze into hard lumps or turn icy.
On top of serving the masses old favourites like Yogi Bear and Salty Caramel, the team is constantly innovating with seasonal and special event whips and baked goods. The key to coming up with fantastical flavours is engaging with the ‘Ōtautahi whānau’ and having a lot of fun. Often it can be just a passing customer shoulder-tapping staff to suggest a new option, a comment left on their chalkboard, or even a creation in the name of happenings in our city, like in support of Showbiz’s recent performance of Matilda the Musical, Trunchbull’s Choccy Cake. The team meets weekly to discuss customer feedback and keep up-to-date with what is happening in the local community and businesses.
Alongside the creamy stuff, the crew brew C4 coffee and the cabinet is full of baked goods that constantly evolve – some even make their way into the gelato! The Gerry Brownie is a long-time favourite and there are newer creations like Sticky Date Pudding (the butterscotch sauce is to die for!) and a summer menu on its way.
The team is already concocting kooky Christmas flavours and new summer favourites. Their current seasonal special is Brownie Points, the best bits of Gerry Brownie, creamy Vanilla Bod gelato, and loaded with berry sauciness. Pop in and say hello!