How to Choose the Right Chocolate Gift (Without Stress)
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Chocolate is one of the easiest gifts to give — and one of the easiest to get wrong. The difference comes down to intention. Start with the occasion Before choosing flavours or sizes, think about why you’re giving the gift. Thank you or appreciation: keep it thoughtful and well-balanced Celebration: choose something visually striking or generous Corporate gifting: premium, clean, and universally appealing Personal moments: this is where meaning and story matter most Matching the gift to the moment matters more than knowing someone’s favourite flavour. When in doubt, choose balance Assortments exist for a reason. They remove pressure, invite sharing, and allow the recipient to discover what they enjoy. A balanced box feels generous and considered — never lazy. Size signals intention Larger boxes don’t just mean more chocolate. They signal effort. They say this wasn’t an afterthought. It was chosen. If the gift is shared, remembered, or talked about later, you’ve picked the right size. Don’t skip the note A short message turns a product into a gesture. It doesn’t need to be clever or emotional. Simple works: “Thinking of you.” “Thank you — truly.” “Hope this brings a little joy.” That one line is often what people remember most. Chocolate that carries meaning lasts longer The best chocolate gifts aren’t rushed. They’re chosen with care and given with purpose. Whether you’re gifting to say thank you, to celebrate, or to connect, thoughtful chocolate does the talking for you. You’ll find gifting options designed for exactly that in the shop.
What Makes a Handmade Bonbon Worth It
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Not all chocolate is created equal.And when it comes to bonbons, the difference between mass-produced and handmade is obvious — once you know what to look for. It starts with the chocolate itself Handmade bonbons rely on high-quality couverture chocolate, chosen for its flavour, texture, and how it melts. This isn’t about being fancy. It’s about using chocolate that behaves properly — snaps cleanly, melts smoothly, and carries flavour without needing excess sugar. You can taste the difference immediately. Craft matters more than speed Handmade bonbons take time. Each shell is formed, filled, sealed, and finished by hand. That process allows for better texture, better balance, and better consistency across each piece. Mass-produced chocolate aims for efficiency. Handmade chocolate prioritises experience. Decoration is part of the story Bonbons aren’t decorated just to look good — though they do. The finish tells you something before you taste anything: someone cared about how this was made. Someone paid attention. That matters when chocolate is being gifted. Presentation sets expectations, and handmade bonbons meet them. Ethics aren’t optional Where chocolate comes from matters. Jala Jala uses premium chocolate sourced through programs that prioritise sustainability, fair wages, and ethical farming practices. That means the indulgence doesn’t come with an uncomfortable afterthought. Good chocolate should feel good to give. Choosing the right box If you’re buying for someone else and don’t know their preferences, a classic assortment is always safe. It offers balance and broad appeal. If the person enjoys trying new flavours or appreciates detail, a signature selection lets them explore something more distinctive. Either way, handmade bonbons turn chocolate into a moment — not just a snack.
A Simple Guide to Native Australian Ingredients in Chocolate
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Native ingredients can sound intimidating if you’ve never tried them.The reality? When they’re paired well, they feel familiar — just more interesting. Chocolate gives you a base people already love. Native ingredients add contrast, brightness, and character. Together, they create flavours that feel considered rather than experimental. Why native ingredients work so well with chocolate Chocolate is rich by nature. Native ingredients often bring acidity, freshness, or gentle bitterness — exactly what chocolate needs to feel balanced rather than heavy. When done properly, nothing dominates. Each element has its place. Davidson Plum: bold, bright, unforgettable Davidson Plum is tart, fruity, and deeply coloured, with a flavour profile similar to sour cherry or raspberry. In chocolate, it cuts through sweetness and adds a sharpness that keeps each bite interesting. It’s the kind of flavour that makes people pause, then go back for another piece. Best for:People who love fruity desserts or prefer chocolate that isn’t overly sweet. Finger Lime: clean, fresh, and surprising Finger Lime brings a burst of citrus that lifts chocolate rather than fighting it. It’s fresh, subtle, and finishes clean — making it ideal for people who enjoy lemon desserts, citrus notes, or flavours that feel light and refined. Best for:Anyone who likes brightness and balance over richness. How to choose the right flavour (without overthinking it) If you’re new to native ingredients, start with contrast. Love dark chocolate? Try it with a bright native fruit. Prefer milk or white chocolate? Look for something tart to balance the sweetness. Buying as a gift? Choose an assortment so there’s room to explore. There’s no wrong choice — just different experiences. How to taste it properly Slow down. Let the chocolate melt slightly before chewing. Notice how the flavour develops — chocolate first, native ingredient second, then the finish. That’s where the magic happens. This isn’t fast chocolate. It rewards attention. If you’re ready to explore native ingredients in a way that feels natural, you’ll find them throughout the Jala Jala range.
Chocolate With Meaning: The Story Behind Jala Jala
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Chocolate can be more than something sweet.It can slow people down, start conversations, and create connection. That’s where Jala Jala begins. Where the name Jala Jala comes from Jala Jala means very good — and it was chosen deliberately. Not as a marketing hook, but as a feeling. The feeling you get when you open a box, take your first bite, and realise this isn’t just another chocolate brand. It’s thoughtful. It’s intentional. It’s been made to be shared. Founded to share culture through chocolate Jala Jala was founded by Sharon Brindley, a proud Yamatji/Noongar woman, with a clear purpose: to share culture through chocolate. By pairing premium chocolate with native Australian ingredients, Jala Jala creates something familiar, layered with meaning. Each flavour is designed not just to taste good, but to spark curiosity and conversation — about ingredients, place, and story. This isn’t about explaining culture.It’s about experiencing it, naturally. Native ingredients that belong here Native Australian ingredients aren’t added for novelty. They’re chosen because they work. Ingredients like Davidson Plum and Finger Lime bring brightness, balance, and contrast to chocolate — cutting through richness and leaving a clean, memorable finish. They elevate the flavour rather than overpower it. The result is chocolate that feels grounded, not gimmicky. Chocolate made for gifting and sharing Jala Jala products are designed with gifting in mind — because gifting is personal. When you give chocolate, you’re saying I thought about this. Whether it’s a thank you, a celebration, or a moment of connection, Jala Jala is made to feel considered, generous, and meaningful. It’s chocolate people pause over.Chocolate they talk about.Chocolate they remember. This is chocolate with purpose Jala Jala is proudly 100% First Nations female-owned, but more importantly, it’s purpose-led. Every product is created with respect for ingredients, craft, and the experience of the person opening the box. No shortcuts. No overcomplication. Just really good chocolate, made with intention. If you’re curious to experience chocolate with meaning, you’ll find our current range in the shop.
Double Chocolate Coconut Balls
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED We’ve always loved the chocolate rum balls (minus the rum), they’re chocolatey, sweet and the crunchy from the cookies is so good. But what if with a few premium ingredients you could elevate them to another level? This recipe uses premium dark chocolate and our famous hot chocolate mix to make extra chocolatey chocolate balls. They’re still lots of fun to make with the kids, but less sweet for a more refined palettes. This recipe is coated using the popular Only Mine Signature Hot Chocolate Mix typically used to make seriously good hot chocolate. As it is real chocolate it can be used for alternative purposes like this. Don’t worry though, there will still be some mix left over to make your favourite hot chocolate! Makes approx 16 balls (less if you snack as you go ) Ingredients 1 x Only Mine Belgian Dark 70% Chocolate Bar 90g (replace with Belgian Dark 55% if you want it a little sweeter) 1 x Arnott’s Maria Biscuits 250g (Can be replaced with any similar type of simple biscuits) 1 x Can Condensed Milk 405g 1 Cup Desiccated Coconut 120g Only Mine Signature Hot Chocolate Mix (replace with Dark Hot Chocolate Mix if you prefer a more bitter flavour). Method Crush the Maria biscuits into small pieces (use a food processor for fine pieces or a rolling pin/hammer for larger chunks) Pour the can of condensed milk into a microwave safe bowl. Coarsely chop the Only Mine Belgian Dark 70% Chocolate Bar and add to the condensed milk, microwave for 2 minutes. Stir the condensed milk and chocolate until well mixed and stir in the coconut and crushed biscuits. Once well mixed use a bowl of water to wet your hands and roll into bite sized balls and roll the balls in the Only Mine Signature Hot Chocolate Mix to coat. Repeat until the mix is completely used up. Refrigerate the balls for around 30 minutes to set. Take them out of the fridge and they’re ready to eat! So good .
Signature Chocolate Log Recipe
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Indulge in the rich and creamy flavours of our chocolate log recipe, a perfect dessert for any occasion. The combination of Biscoff biscuits, crushed pistachios, and our signature hot chocolate mix creates a mouthwatering treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With the rich, velvety goodness of our Signature Hot Chocolate Mix. This recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream, boasting a decadent taste and a one-of-a-kind texture that is sure to impress. Don’t miss out on this must-try dessert for your next sweet craving. Ingredients 250g – Biscoff biscuits (lightly crumbled) 240g- Only Mine signature hot chocolate mix 60g – crushed pistachios ¼ cup of Icing sugar 1 Sheet of Glad Wrap Method 1. Crush biscuits into a light crumble in a large bowl. 2. Set the stove to a medium heat and add your recommended amount of Signature Hot Chocolate Mix to a pot. 3. Once melted add the chocolate mix in with the crushed biscuits in the large bowl. 4. Now get your Pistachios and lightly break them up into small pieces (Mortar and pestle recommended) 5. Add crushed pistachios to the bowl containing your crushed biscuits and chocolate, then gently stir until all ingredients are mixed. 6. Get some glad wrap and apply the mixture onto the wrap and shape it into a log. 7. Next place it in your freezer for 8 hours to get the best results. 8. Bring the Chocolate log out of the freezer and unwrap it from the glad wrap. 9. Using a sifter, apply icing sugar onto the log, once finished slice into 4-6 logs and enjoy!
Signature Chocolate Fondue
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Indulge in a sweet and decadent experience with our chocolate Fondue, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Our Fondue can be paired with a variety of dipping options such as fresh strawberries, marshmallows, banana slices, or fresh Mangos. It’s the perfect treat for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Whether you prefer the rich and creamy flavour of our Signature Hot Chocolate mix or the intense chocolate taste of our dark chocolate buttons, our Fondue is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Treat yourself today by following our recipe down below. Ingredients 1 cup of light cream 220g Signature Hot Chocolate Mix 220g Dark chocolate buttons (Optional) Method 1. Melt Signature Hot Chocolate Mix (or Dark chocolate buttons) in a pot until it reaches a thick liquid consistency 2. Mix in the light cream 3. Stir until well combined 4. Transfer to a bowl and serve (Best served warm) 5. Warm up in the microwave for 30 seconds if needed Optional: Consider using a Fondue machine if you have one for best results More for you…
Signature Hot Chocolate Cookies
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED This recipe for delicious cookies is a perfect combination of sweet and easy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these mouth-watering treats in no time. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress. The secret to their irresistible flavour lies in the perfect balance of ingredients, creating a snack that is both indulgent and satisfying. Our Signature Hot Chocolate Mix though is what makes these cookies so impressive, with its sweet kick this’ll make for the perfect treat. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results. Ingredients 125g – Butter 1/2 Cup – Caster sugar 1/2 Cup – Brown sugar 1 Tsp – Vanilla essense 1 – egg 1 1/2 – cups Self raising sugar 180g – Only Mine Signature Hot Chocolate Mix. Method 1. Add melted butter to a large mixing bowl along with the flour 2. Then add and mix sugars and butter till fluffy 3. Then add egg and vanilla essence 4. Stir in flour whilst also adding the Signature Hot Chocolate Mix 5. Make into balls and place on a tray then put in oven on 180 degrees for 16 mins 6. Take out tray and let the cookies sit for 15 minutes 7. Enjoy
Chocolates Lash Out After Being Accused of Looking “Too Good To Eat”
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED Only Mine Signature Bonbons, a hand crafted range of chocolates have taken to the media this week in outrage over being told they “look too good to eat”. “We’re more than just a pretty chocolate shell” says Orange, one of the 16 flavours of bonbons frustrated with their treatment, “We’ve got a delicious, creamy ganache centre made with authentic ingredients, not that artificial stuff found elsewhere”. Pictured: Orange Signature Bonbon, With A Soft Ganache Centre Infused With Real Orange Juice & Zest. “I’ve been around for 8 years experiencing this treatment, and it’s time to stand up for ourselves” added Caramel, one of the oldest and most popular flavours in the range. “I just want to be bought and devoured” said Raspberry, a fruit flavour made with real raspberries. “I’m sick of being treated as eye candy and want to be enjoyed, that’s what makes me happy” added Raspberry urging readers to buy them now. “Why can’t we look good and taste amazing at the same time?” asks Peanut Butter. “I’m real chocolate, with real cocoa butter” exclaims Coconut & Almond, a white chocolate bonbon frustrated with being accused of not being real chocolate. “Real white chocolate like me should not be compared to supermarket chocolate that replaces the cocoa butter with vegetable oil” they added. Pictured: Coconut & Almond Signature Chocolate Bonbon Exposing Their Coconut & Almond Ganache Centre. “I don’t know what else I need to do” says Passionfruit, a dark chocolate bonbon with a passionfruit ganache inside, “We’ve worked hard to be both gorgeous and delicious, yet we’re often only appreciated for our looks, and not what’s on the inside”. It’s clear that these stunning gourmet chocolates that come in equally gorgeous chocolate boxes are frustrated. “We’re not marbles” said Apple & Cinnamon one of the more unique flavours in the range, “we’re chocolate and we’re f*cking delicious” they added clearly angered by constantly being told they look like marbles. Pictured: Apple & Cinnamon Signature Bonbon, With A Dried Apple & Cinnamon Infused Ganache. “If you don’t want to eat us, gift us” shared Cookies & Cream, “how can someone not be happy after biting into my cookies infused ganache with a crunchy cookie layer”. A spokesperson for the Centre Against Eating Chocolates (also known as CAEC) in a statement said “These Signature Bonbons were doing a great job of stopping people from indulging in chocolate because they look like works of art” adding “People should resist their tempting ganache centres and instead eat other snacks like Celery and Carrots”. No matter what side you sit on, it is clear that these stunning chocolates want to be devoured. If you don’t want to enjoy them yourself you can always gift them anywhere Australia wide, with a free gift note and ice pack during warmer months. What are you waiting for? Pick your box size below then pick your flavours! Disclaimer: These chocolates don’t really talk, but if they did this is what we believe they would say. The Centre Against Eating Chocolates isn’t real, we made it up, seriously, who would be against eating chocolate? They really are so delicious, and their whole life goal is to make you happy when you indulge in them. If you’re still reading this far then we’ve probably entertained you, but you need a little more convincing… Well here’s a little hidden “Easter Egg” (not literally) for you, use the code EATUS at the checkout to get 10% off Signature Bonbons on your next order. Valid for 1 order only, but hella worth it. Cannot be applied after your have checked out, so if you want the deal, make sure you apply the coupon when checking out. See, sometimes it pays to read. Enjoy your choccies guys, and a big thank you in advance from your local gourmet chocolate maker, Only Mine.
Queen Vic Melbourne Store Closure
THIS EVENT HAS CONCLUDED It is with a very heavy heart we have decided to close our Melbourne CBD store located opposite Queen Victoria Market. When we first opened the store just 18 months ago we had high hopes, we had big name traders coming in around us, a great fit out and a great team to drive it. Sadly all that was promised never came to fruition and our great fit out and team were left in a dark cold alley way with few to no customers. We’ve opened other stores that are “out of the way” like our Cranbourne West Chocolate Factory and we’ve had success driving our own traffic here. Melbourne was way more challenging with the laneway never being added to Google Maps so the address never existed and endless blockages for construction. It’s a real shame that in the end it seems we would continue to lose a boat load of money if we stayed there so we made the call to cut our losses and re-focus our energy on our existing stores in Olinda and Cranbourne West. The final date of trade will be Friday 3rd November 2023. We thank those who did manage to find our Melbourne store and shop there! We do hope you can continue to support us whether it be online or at one of our other stores. Our Olinda and Cranbourne West stores remain open and are unaffected by this decision.
