Hard to believe it's plant-based!

Mango mousse cake

Brand: Starbucks

Price: 530 yen

Place of purchase: Starbucks

Rating:

I mentioned it already on another review, but I'm such a huge fan of Japan's leaps and bounds over recent years into the plant-based realm -- and that extends to a lot of mainstream chains, not just dedicated vegan eateries. Starbucks has some really delicious plant-based sweets on their menu at the moment, including this mango mousse cake. It's a super light option if you're after something sweet but don't want something that's going to weigh you down during hotter days, so it feels like a smart release as we head into summer. The mousse has a nice creaminess to it, too, so it's hard to believe it's vegan! The base of the cake is made from crunchy granola, and then there's a mango mousse, mango pulp on top, and even a mango sauce hidden inside the mousse. Lots of mango flavors and textures going on, and the granola does a good job of balancing that.

It's probably a bit much to call this a cake, since it really is just a fruity mousse with fruit pulp and crushed-up granola as the base. In saying that, it's still delicious, and works really well as a warm weather dessert. I do think the price point of 530 yen feels a bit high for what the product consists of, though, so it's not something I'd really consider purchasing again. In saying that, it's an excellent option for plant-based eaters looking for a lighter-feeling sweet treat. If you're after a more traditional cake option, try their lemon cube cake which is really reasonably priced and also vegan friendly. Happy eating, and enjoy! :)