Starbucks Japan Adds Popping Pachi-Pachi Trick to Halloween Frappuccino for a Crackling Surprise

Starbucks Japan has elevated its Halloween Frappuccino with the introduction of the Pachi-Pachi Trick, a popping candy customization that adds a crackling texture to the drink. Available in mystery colors, the sachet enhances the fiery-themed Frappuccino, giving customers an exciting new experience this season.

Starbucks Japan Adds Popping Candy Customization to Halloween Frappuccino, Enhancing Its Fiery Theme

On October 11, Starbucks Japan kicked off its Halloween celebrations with the launch of a striking new Frappuccino, designed to resemble a burning flame. The eye-catching appearance is created with swirling layers of bright blueberry and raspberry-flavored sauces. At the same time, the drink’s condensed milk-flavored base playfully tricks the palate, giving the sensation that it’s melted under heat.

Starbucks added an extra surprise to elevate the experience with a unique customization option: the Pachi-Pachi Trick. Available in individual sachets for 108 yen (US$0.72) for takeout or 110 yen for dine-in, the Pachi-Pachi Trick comes in three mystery colors—red, blue, and orange. The color is revealed only upon opening, but no matter the shade, the sachet adds a fun, crackling texture to the drink, mimicking the sound of crackling flames. The popping candy pairs perfectly with the drink’s theme, complementing the crunchy chocolate chunks and the mixed berry sauce made from strawberry, raspberry, and cranberry, offering a sharp and bold contrast to the sweet flavors.

The Pachi-Pachi Trick customization will be available at Starbucks stores across Japan starting on October 18 and can be purchased while the Halloween Frappuccino is on the menu until October 31.

Starbucks Japan Debuts Mela Meela Frappuccino with Fiery Halloween Theme and Limited-Edition Treats

Last week's report, Starbucks has embraced the season with its annual limited-edition Frappuccino. Inspired by a "Magical Fire Halloween" theme, this year's version is called the Mela Meela Frappuccino. It borrows its name from the Japanese onomatopoeia "mera mera," meaning flaring flames. The drink's fiery look is achieved with vivid red and blue hues created by blending blueberry and raspberry powders, while the condensed milk base suggests a melting sensation.

While the promotional posters are visually striking, the drink is more vibrant in person. Each flame-like gradient differs depending on how the barista pours it, adding a magical touch. The topping features toasted chocolate chunks and a swirl of mixed berry sauce, combining strawberry, raspberry, and cranberry, which adds a slightly bitter, almost charred taste.

Despite its fiery appearance, the Mela Meela Frappuccino is surprisingly gentle in flavor, with the condensed milk base offering a creamy sweetness. The berry notes become more pronounced upon stirring, though the drink remains light on the palate compared to other Frappuccinos. The subtle flavors create mystery, making each sip feel like an exploration, enhancing the beverage’s magical theme.

Starbucks suggests adding chocolate chips for 55 yen (US$0.37) for those looking to add sweetness. The Halloween-inspired Malassada Raspberry & Blueberry treat, released on the same day as the Frappuccino, is a great companion. Priced at 330 yen, this doughnut-like dessert features black dough with purple blueberry cream and red raspberry sauce center, perfect for those who enjoy solid and sweet flavors. While tempting to pair with the Frappuccino, it might be better suited to a less-sweet, coffee-based drink.

In celebration of Halloween, Starbucks has also released a limited-edition collection of seasonal drinkware, including an adorable black cat double-walled mug. The Mela Meela Frappuccino and the Malassada are available until October 31. Still, stocks are limited, so customers are encouraged to enjoy them before disappearing, possibly in a puff of Halloween smoke.