Save A creative collection of globally inspired desserts blending flavors and techniques from around the world, featuring matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars.
I loved experimenting with these mash-ups at home, discovering how unexpected combinations like miso and matcha could be both intriguing and delicious. My family enjoyed taste-testing every batch, especially debating which flavor twist was the best!
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 Making these desserts together has become a tradition for us, with everyone getting involved in mixing, layering, and decorating each treat before sharing at the table.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, 20x20 cm (8-inch) baking pan, saucepan and heatproof bowl, sifter, spatula, serving cups or glasses
Notes
Swap white miso for tahini in brownies if unavailable. Try green tea or espresso instead of chai in tiramisu. Pair these desserts with dessert wine or green tea.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g (averaged per serving)
Save These mash-ups promise a vibrant finale to any meal and will spark plenty of conversation at your next gathering.
Recipe Questions
- → Can miso be substituted in brownies?
Yes, you can swap white miso for tahini, which adds similar richness and subtle flavor to the brownies.
- → How should ladyfingers be handled for chai tiramisu?
Dip ladyfingers quickly in cooled chai tea to prevent excessive soaking and maintain structure in the dessert cups.
- → Where can I find black sesame paste?
Black sesame paste is available in Asian grocery stores. For a different taste, try substituting peanut butter.
- → What can I pair with these desserts?
Complement these sweets with dessert wines or green tea for a refreshing contrast to the fusion flavors.
- → Are there common allergens present?
These dishes contain gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and sesame. Review each ingredient for personalized dietary concerns.
- → What texture should brownies have when done?
The brownies are set but remain fudgy in the center, creating an ideal texture after cooling and slicing.