Save 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.
I first made these mash-ups for a multicultural potluck, and they were a hit with everyone. Friends from different backgrounds enjoyed discovering flavors both familiar and new in each bite.
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 My niece loved helping layer the chai tiramisu cups, sharing stories about her favorite desserts from school lunches. It's a special tradition to try new treats together in the kitchen.
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. Always check miso and cookie ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein on average.
Save Enjoy sharing these global dessert mash-ups at your next gathering. The unique combinations are sure to spark delicious conversation.
Kitchen Questions
- → Can I substitute white miso in the brownies?
Yes, you can use tahini for a similar texture and nutty taste if miso is unavailable.
- → How strong should the chai tea be for tiramisu?
Brew a robust chai so its spice and flavor stand out against creamy layers and biscuits.
- → Is black sesame paste necessary for cheesecake bars?
Black sesame paste gives unique flavor, but peanut butter can work as an alternative.
- → What can I serve with these desserts?
Pair with dessert wine, green tea, or espresso to complement the fusion of flavors.
- → Are these desserts vegetarian?
Yes, all options use vegetarian-friendly ingredients and are suitable for vegetarian diets.
- → Do any desserts contain allergens?
They include gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and sesame. Always double-check labels for allergens.