“We now carry local fresh milk and yogurt from Hastings Farm, home-made fudge and other products from Cupola Hollow Farm, honey from Hilltop Farm and freshly cut flowers from Julie The Garden Fairy,” says Jason Siemienkowicz who operates the Hilltop Farm Store and Creamery with his wife Crystal.
As they start their second year, the couple is excited, noting that they will now use only Hastings fresh milk to make milkshakes and a new addition – homemade gelato, which they will be test marketing.
Using gelato equipment generously donated by a local resident, Jason said they will use fresh, locally grown ingredients such as blueberries and strawberries to mix into the base of the treat which originated in Italy some 500 years ago.
Last year, Jason attended a manufacturer’s course on operating the equipment and making the product. He learned that by volume, gelato typically has about half the fat content and is churned slower than traditional American ice cream, creating a denser and creamier product.
“Of course, we’re still offering our popular soft and hard ice cream flavors, floats, coolers, sherbets, sundaes and toppings,” notes Crystal.
Thankful for their staff and location Crystal attributes much of their continued success to the welcoming attitude and competency of their staff. “Sure, we have quality products,” she says, “but we’re always hearing compliments about the friendliness of our crew and the cleanliness of our shop. Customers also enjoy the opportunity to sit and talk with family at our outdoor tables. They love viewing the sunsets and exploring the grounds.”
Giving back to Suffield
Crystal and Jason support local causes. On April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, they contributed 10% of their sales to autism charities. On May 7, they will conduct the same fundraiser to benefit the Suffield elementary school PTO. They’re also sponsoring a Suffield Little League team of third and fourth graders starting this year.
Their spring hours are Tuesday – Sunday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Part of the Hilltop Farm Store and Creamery staff on World Autism Awareness Day, April 2.
(L to R) Sydney Eitel, Janine Eitel, Izzy Sperrazza and Zoe Kaplan.