Lokal Babes | Holly Dolly Bakes
WORDS: Stef Richardson + PHOTOS: Alyssa Joline Photography
If you haven’t tried a vegan donut made with love by Holly - you’re seriously missing out! I’ve said this time and time again, but I’m very obsessed with her chocolate flava. Something about it tastes so nostalgic and it’s one of those gimme-right-now kind o’ treats. Holly has been serving up her delicious donuts for over a year at Gibson + Company and truly have become a weekend fave for most locals. Pick up one or two OR pre-order large batches by direct message on Instagram or through email. Her flavours are ever-changing (minus a few classics) but Holly always pulls through with something seasonal or colourful + tempting. Her donuts can be customized and can be made gluten free!
Check out Holly on Instagram here. Read on for Q+A.
HOLLY // DONUT QUEEN
Q + A
What has been your favourite donut combo so far?
My favourite flavours are confetti and death by chocolate. They are the classics that I can enjoy over and over again. My favourite one-time flavour combo would probably have to be the black sesame & orange donut with the bits of candied sesame as garnish. That combination was super interesting.
What was your favourite meal when you were younger that you still make + love now?
My favourite meal as a child was one that my mom used to make called Mediterranean pie. It’s a flakey pie with a thick layer of ham, mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers and a thick layer of spinach. It’s not something I eat anymore now that I’m vegan however my love for spinach has remained and that’s something that I incorporate into anything + everything.
What are your top 3 books? Three books that I could read over and over again would be:
Travis Barker - Can I Say (I found it to be super motivational )
Robert Munch - I'll Love You Forever (classic)
+ any vegan cookbook
What’s something people wouldn’t know about you?
I love hand blown glass and mason jars. When Infinite Glassworks had her odds and ends sale last year, I bought some really cool pieces. I also have a collection of blown glass birds that I just love. In terms of mason jars, my mom calls it hoarding LOL. When I find a really neat vintage jar, I just have to have it! I use mason jars as pantry vessels for sprinkles, chocolate chips, sugar oatmeal - so multiple sizes are needed.
Any future goals/aspirations for HDB? You know, those big dream kinda things.
My journey thus far has not been easy. I am lucky that I've had the same chef mentor for the last 5 years who has helped me with everything from career advice to emotional support. Thanks Chef G!
Even though it's 2020, the professional kitchen is still seen as a "mans world". I would like to set up a network of women so we can better support one another (support your local girl group!) or even be in a position where I could get an apprentice and help her achieve her goals. I’m very proud and lucky to to have been born in one of the most supportive towns ever. Collingwood has blown me away with the support. I definitely would not be here if Jess (With Light and Shadow Photography) hadn't believed in me and suggest I take my donuts to Luke and Keaton at Gibson and Company.
Thank you Collingwood!