Starbucks Japan debuts its Chocolate Mousse Latte and limited-edition autumn desserts for 2023. Credit: EconoTimes
Starbucks Japan is welcoming autumn with a revamped Chocolate Mousse Latte, using a richer Espresso Roast, alongside limited-time desserts like the Two-Apple Variety Custard Apple Pie. The seasonal offerings are available until October 31, inviting customers to indulge in the warm flavors of fall.
Starbucks Japan Revamps Chocolate Mousse Latte with Richer Espresso, Launches Limited-Edition Autumn Desserts
On September 30, Starbucks kicked off autumn with the return of the Chocolate Mousse Latte, a seasonal favorite that garnered positive reviews last year. However, this year's iteration features a slight twist -- it uses Espresso Roast instead of the previous Blonde Espresso Roast. This change aims to bring a deeper, richer flavor to the beverage.
Starbucks enthusiast K. Masami decided to investigate whether this new blend would enhance the drink's nutty and chocolatey notes. To fully immerse herself in the experience, she paired her latte with a slice of the Two-Apple Variety Custard Apple Pie from Aomori Prefecture (priced at 600 yen [US$4.13]), one of three limited-edition autumn desserts released on the same day.
Opting for the apple pie over the Pumpkin Basque Cheesecake (520 yen) and Marron Pound Cake (390 yen), Masami was particularly intrigued by the recommendation to add a free sprinkling of cinnamon powder and a dollop of whipped cream for an additional 50 yen. The combination was new for her, and the result exceeded her expectations. The dessert delivered a medley of fruity, cinnamon aromas, and each bite was a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, warm, and tart flavors. The whipped cream added a luxurious, melty texture, creating a cozy, heartwarming experience.
Starbucks Japan's Revamped Chocolate Mousse Latte Shines with Darker Roast and Oat Milk Twist
The chocolate Mousse Latte did not disappoint. Although she had tried it last year, Masami found that the darker Espresso Roast in this year's version better complemented the drink's rich chocolate and coffee notes. She also followed the barista's suggestion to switch to oat milk, which she highly recommends. The oat milk enhanced the latte's nuttiness, ensuring the bold chocolate and coffee flavors didn't overpower it.
Masami also advised sipping the latte in-store rather than opting for takeout. For 600 yen, enjoying the drink in a ceramic mug -- rather than the 589-yen takeout version -- allows customers to wrap their hands around the warm mug and savor the comforting atmosphere inside the cafe.
According to SoraNews24, this seasonal lineup is a perfect way to embrace the autumn spirit, but it will only be available for a limited time. The desserts are available while stocks last, and the Chocolate Mousse Latte will remain on the menu until October 31.