Koala’s March Happy Happy Shortcake Review – Japanese Snack by Lotte
Introduction
This article reviews Koala’s March Happy Happy Shortcake, a newly released flavor from the popular long-selling Koala’s March series, launched in March 2026.
I will cover its flavor, texture, ingredients, and allergen information in detail.
Packaging
Starting from March 17, 2026, the koala designs printed on both the package and the biscuits have been updated to a cuter style.
As part of the “366 Days Happy Birthday March” project, this product was released as one of the new lineup items.
The term “Hapi Hapi” comes from “Happy,” repeated to express a cute and cheerful version of “Happy Birthday.”
In Japan, the combination of birthday and shortcake (Japanese-style strawberry and whipped cream cake) is widely recognized as a classic way to celebrate.
The package also mentions that the biscuits are made with Hokkaido fresh cream (1.1% in liquid equivalent), which raises expectations.
The package features three characters: March-kun, Waltz-chan, and Doremi-kun, shown across two sides.
The design has shifted from realistic koalas to these cuter characters, who now represent the Koala’s March brand.
Above the cake illustration, you can see the numbers 1984, the year Koala’s March was first released, and 0303, representing March 3.
In Japan, March 3 is officially recognized as Koala’s March Day.
The number 33 can also be read as “mimi” in Japanese, meaning “ears,” which connects to the image of koala ears.
This shows how wordplay is used even in the product’s design.
Appearance
When I opened the box, I noticed a pleasant aroma combining strawberry and creamy sweetness.
It was a nice surprise to be able to smell the strawberry flavor even before eating.
As with other Koala’s March products, the biscuits feature cute koala prints along with dates and years.
The small hole on the back of each biscuit is where the chocolate filling is injected.
Taste & Texture
I poured everything onto a plate, but once again, none matched my own birthday.
However, with so many variations, it feels like only a matter of time before finding one.
This “searching” aspect is one of the unique joys of Koala’s March, and the small happiness of finding a match is part of its appeal.
The texture is light and crispy, with a mild biscuit that pairs well with the strawberry and cream-flavored chocolate.
There is also a slight hint of strawberry acidity, which helps recreate the taste of a Japanese-style strawberry shortcake in a small bite-sized snack.
This product is widely available across Japan in supermarkets and convenience stores.
Quick Review
Product Information
Nutrition Facts
Nutritional values per box (46 g)
・Energy: 245 kcal
・Protein: 1.8 g
・Fat: 13.7 g
・Carbohydrates: 28.5 g
・Salt Equivalent: 0.3 g
・Calcium: 254 mg
Ingredients
・Sugar (manufactured in Japan)
・Wheat flour
・Vegetable oils and fats
・Lactose
・Starch
・Shortening
・Cocoa butter
・Whole milk powder
・Whey powder
・Liquid egg
・Cream powder
・Strawberry powder
・Salt
Additives
・Calcium carbonate
・Leavening agent
・Trehalose
・Coloring (caramel, red beet)
・Flavoring
・Emulsifier (soy derived)
Allergens
Contains:
・Egg
・Milk
・Wheat
・Soy
Product Classification
Name: Semi-chocolate confectionery
Storage Instructions
Store in a cool place below 28°C.
Notes
The small hole on the back of the product is the injection point for the chocolate filling.
After opening, consume as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
Koala’s March Happy Happy Shortcake combines cute design, playful elements, and a well-balanced strawberry cream flavor.
The variety of koala prints adds an element of discovery, while the taste recreates a familiar Japanese dessert in a simple snack form.
It is a product that delivers both visual enjoyment and a satisfying flavor experience.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
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