Cookie Grove Ice Cream cafe Millgrove: Lana Emmerton’s business a hit

A Millgrove woman made ice cream every day for five months in her quest to create amazing sweet treats - now her hard work is paying off.

The ice cream flavours at Cookie Grove Millgrove.

There’s a sweet spot for visitors to stop as they take on the popular Lilydale to Warburton Rail Trail, with an ice cream store serving unique flavours winning fans.

Lana Emmerton opened the Cookie Grove Ice Cream Cafe in late 2021, and it has become a favourite with locals and visitors taking on the Trail.

Ms Emmerton worked in hospitality for a long time and wanted to start her own business.

“When I was in lockdown I taught myself how to make ice cream,” she said.

“I made ice cream every day for five months.”

She bought a couple of books and a Breville Smart Scoop (ice cream maker) as she began her quest to create amazing sweet treats.

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“I made a couple of recipes from books and Google but every time I made it I wanted to refine something else, whether it be the texture, or the flavour, and then I started to dig into the science of making ice cream.”

The Cookie Grove was born, with the mouth-watering flavours impressing customers ever since the store opened its doors.

Ms Emmerton makes her ice cream with a chocolate, vanilla or fruit base.

“I wanted to make a really good berry ice cream using fresh berries because we have so many good berries out here in the valley,” she said.

The store has been a hit with users on the Trail looking to cool off after a ride or walk.

“It is a good bribing tool to get kids on the bikes and out of the house,” Ms Emmerton said.

She makes all her ice cream from scratch and said the “real flavours” and “silky texture” appealed to customers.

Ms Emmerton previously worked in cocktail bars and knows how to put different botanicals together.

Lana Emmerton from Cookie Grove Millgrove.

As well as a “rich and delicious” chocolate flavour, made with Belgian chocolate, and real vanilla, cookies and cream, and peppermint choc chip, customers can also choose from a couple of creative flavour combinations, including honey, ricotta and macadamia nut.

Crispy toasties and coffee is also on offer.

The store also sells sorbets made with local produce.

Cookie Grove is at Shop 5/3043 Warburton Highway, Millgrove.