Save to Pinterest A creative collection of globally inspired desserts blending flavors and techniques from around the world—think matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars.
When I first tested these mash-ups for a family get-together, everyone was amazed by the unique flavors. It felt like traveling the world right from our kitchen table, and choosing favorites turned into its own fun debate after dinner!
Ingredients
- Matcha-Miso Brownies: 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) bittersweet chocolate (chopped), 150 g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 70 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp matcha powder, 1 tbsp white miso paste, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- Chai Tiramisu (mini cups, optional): 250 g (1 cup) mascarpone cheese, 150 ml (2/3 cup) heavy cream, 50 g (1/4 cup) sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 100 ml strong chai tea (cooled), 12 ladyfinger biscuits, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cardamom, cocoa powder (for dusting)
- Black Sesame Cheesecake Bars: 200 g (2 cups) chocolate cookie crumbs, 75 g (1/3 cup) unsalted butter (melted), 400 g (14 oz) cream cheese (softened), 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar, 2 large eggs, 60 ml (1/4 cup) black sesame paste, 1 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt
Instructions
- Matcha-Miso Brownies:
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 20x20 cm (8-inch) baking pan with parchment paper. Melt butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Whisk in sugar, then eggs one at a time, and vanilla. Sift in flour, matcha powder, and salt. Stir until just combined. Gently fold in miso paste until streaks remain for a marbled effect. Pour batter into pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until set but still fudgy. Cool completely before slicing.
- Chai Tiramisu:
- Beat mascarpone, cream, sugar, and vanilla until thick and smooth. Quickly dip ladyfingers into cooled chai tea and layer in serving cups. Spread mascarpone mixture over ladyfingers. Dust with cinnamon, cardamom, and cocoa powder. Chill in fridge at least 2 hours before serving.
- Black Sesame Cheesecake Bars:
- Mix cookie crumbs with melted butter and press into a lined 20x20 cm (8-inch) pan. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then black sesame paste, vanilla, and salt. Pour over crust and smooth the top. Bake at 160°C (325°F) for 25–30 minutes, until set. Cool, then chill at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save to Pinterest Sharing these treats became an instant family tradition. My young niece declared the brownies "otherworldly" and insisted we make mash-up desserts part of every celebration.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, 20x20 cm (8-inch) baking pan, saucepan and heatproof bowl, sifter, spatula, serving cups or glasses
Allergen Information
Contains gluten, dairy, eggs, soy (miso), and sesame. Double-check miso and cookie ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (average): Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g
Save to Pinterest Serve these mash-ups with dessert wine or green tea for a sophisticated finish. Don't be surprised when guests ask for seconds!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes these desserts a fusion?
They combine ingredients and techniques from various global traditions like matcha, miso, chai spices, and black sesame to create innovative sweets.
- → Can I substitute miso in the brownies?
Yes, you can use tahini or nut butters to provide a similar depth and slight savory twist in flavor.
- → Are these treats vegetarian-friendly?
All treats use dairy, eggs, and vegetarian-friendly ingredients, excluding meat or gelatin.
- → How do I achieve the marble effect in brownies?
Gently fold miso into the batter so visible streaks remain before baking, without fully mixing it in.
- → What pairs well with these desserts?
Serve with green tea, bold espresso, or dessert wine to complement the global flavors and rich textures.
- → Are there allergen concerns in these desserts?
They contain gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and sesame. Check all ingredients for possible allergens before serving.
- → How can I make the chai tiramisu vegan?
Replace mascarpone and cream with plant-based alternatives and use egg-free ladyfingers for a vegan version.