Article: The Gold Coast’s Real-Life Willy Wonka: Meet Alicia from Little Cocoa
The Gold Coast’s Real-Life Willy Wonka: Meet Alicia from Little Cocoa
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to turn a love of chocolate into a full-blown dream business, Alicia from Little Cocoa is living proof that it can be done—and beautifully so.
From her early days in the kitchen to crafting bespoke chocolate creations on the Gold Coast, Alicia’s journey is equal parts passion, persistence, and a little bit of magic.
At Coast and Banks, we handpicked Alicia and her range of gorgeous chocolates for our gift boxes—and they’ve quickly become a standout favourite. The feedback from our clients has been nothing short of amazing, with many calling them the highlight of their gift experience.
So, we decided to sit down with Alicia to talk all things chocolate, creativity, and what it really takes to build a business from scratch.
From Apprentice to Chocolatier
Alicia’s story begins at just 15 years old, when she stepped into the culinary world through a chefing apprenticeship. But it didn’t take long for her to realise her heart was leaning toward something sweeter.
“I decided to explore pastry more deeply,” she explains. “So I went back to TAFE and completed additional patisserie training alongside my commercial cookery qualification.”
That decision opened doors—from Melbourne’s pastry kitchens to a chocolate company that would ultimately change everything.
The Moment It All Clicked
While Alicia had worked with chocolate throughout her career, it wasn’t until she was living in Germany that everything fell into place.
“I found this small bean-to-bar chocolate shop near my house,” she says. “They were sourcing beans from South America and making everything from scratch. It was fascinating—and I knew then that I wanted to work exclusively with chocolate.”
That spark led her back home to the Gold Coast, where—with support from family—Little Cocoa was born.
The Birth of Little Cocoa
The very first product Alicia created? Chocolate pralines—and they remain the heart of the brand today.
These aren’t your everyday chocolates. Think delicate, hand-painted shells filled with rich caramels, silky ganaches, and layered nut or fruit fillings.
“They’re designed to be gifted,” Alicia says. “Whether it’s weddings, corporate events, or something special for a loved one, they’re made to feel meaningful.”
The Most Rewarding Part of the Journey
Running a business isn’t just about the product—it’s about growth.
“Personal growth has been the most rewarding part,” Alicia shares. “It pushes you to work harder, think differently, and bounce back from challenges.”
Of course, there’s also nothing quite like seeing a customer try her chocolates for the first time.
“That moment—it makes everything worth it.”
Chocolate as a Creative Canvas
One of the most exciting aspects of Alicia’s work is creating completely custom chocolate experiences.
From edible treasure maps with hidden chocolate gold to chocolate nuts and bolts and even luxury Easter displays, the possibilities are endless.
“It’s about bringing a client’s vision to life in a way that’s both beautiful and delicious.”
Behind the Scenes: The Art of Chocolate Making
Every piece of chocolate at Little Cocoa is handmade in-house using premium couverture chocolate and real ingredients.
A typical day might include:
- Polishing and painting moulds with cocoa butter colours
- Shelling, filling, and sealing chocolates
- Cooking slow, rich caramels
- Packing orders and serving customers
“It’s a detailed process,” Alicia says. “People are always surprised by how much time and skill goes into each piece.”
Where Flavour Inspiration Comes From
Inspiration can strike anywhere—restaurants, random ideas, or team brainstorming sessions.
“We start with base recipes, think about texture, and build from there.”
And she’s not afraid to push boundaries.
“I’d love to explore more savoury flavours—like miso, feta, or truffle—paired with chocolate in a balanced way.”
Taste Testing & Guilty Pleasures
Yes, taste testing is part of the job (lucky, right?).
Alicia admits her weakness lies in anything from the panning machine—especially dark chocolate cherries and milk chocolate spiced almonds.
“They’re dangerously snackable.”
Life on the Gold Coast
For Alicia, the Gold Coast offers the perfect blend of lifestyle and business.
“It’s a beautiful place to live, and there’s a strong appreciation for premium products here.”
After long days in the kitchen, she prefers to unwind at home—enjoying her outdoor space with a cool drink as the sun sets.
Quick Fire Favourites
- Dark, milk, or white? Milk (with caramel, fruity notes and a creamy finish)
- Sweet or savoury? Savoury
- One word for her chocolate? Gorgeous
- One word for the Gold Coast? Beautiful
A Chocolate Inspired by the Coast?
When asked what a Gold Coast-inspired chocolate would look like, Alicia didn’t hesitate:
“Sub-tropical fruit flavours with a hint of sea salt to balance the sweetness.”
Honestly? We’d line up for that.
Final Thoughts
Alicia’s journey is a reminder that passion evolves—and sometimes, the path finds you through small moments along the way.
From a teenage apprentice to crafting luxurious, bespoke chocolates, she’s built something truly special with Little Cocoa.
And if this is what chocolate dreams are made of… we’re all in. 
