Starbucks Unveils Sweet Potato Flavored Coffee in Japan, Sparking Jealousy Among US Customers

Starbucks has unveiled a seasonal beverage that’s perfect for autumn, though customers might find it challenging to locate the drink as it is exclusive to Japan.

When fall approaches, many picture themselves enjoying a warm Pumpkin Spiced Latte from Starbucks, which is known as the quintessential beverage of the season. Over the years, Starbucks has introduced a variety of adaptations to this classic drink. This year, they have launched an Iced Pumpkin Cream Chai and a Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew.

Additionally, the ‘Apple Crisp’ flavored coffees have made a comeback, featuring the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Shaken Espresso and the Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato, both of which have enjoyed popularity in previous seasons.

In an international release, Starbucks has introduced a beverage known as the ‘Sweet Potato Frappuccino’ to celebrate the arrival of fall. This new drink is exclusive to Japan and features yaki-imo (sweet potato) blended with a rich, sweet caramel sauce. Hints of vanilla are added to replicate the flavor of a canelé, a traditional French pastry.

The Sweet Potato Frappuccino is a classic menu item at Starbucks Japan

Topped with salty-sweet, sugar-coated sweet potato chips, this drink offers the perfect finishing touch. Prices range from 530 to 671 yen, which is approximately $3.67 to $4.64, and it will be available from September 4 to October 31.

What many customers may not recognize is that, although this beverage is a novelty for American customers, it has actually been a staple on Japanese fall menus for the past three years. A viral video from 2020 sparked significant interest among US consumers.

“I would love to try that in America! Sounds better than some of these other crazy sweet drinks,” one commenter expressed, clearly intrigued.

“I’m going to need a recipe so I can remake it in the US. I wish sweet potatoes were more common flavoring here,” another respondent agreed.

One fortunate customer shared: “I LOOVVEEE the sweet potato drink! It actually tastes like fall lol.”

For those feeling envious of Japanese Starbucks patrons, there are still exciting offerings for this season. In addition to the new drinks menu, Starbucks has also launched a fresh lineup of Halloween cups, including the sought-after slime drip cup.

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