Save A creative collection of globally inspired desserts blending flavors and techniques from around the world. Discover the unique fusion of matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars.
I first made these mash-up desserts for a weekend gathering and everyone was intrigued by the unexpected flavors, especially the matcha-miso brownies. Each bite felt like traveling, with familiar bases and fresh, cross-cultural surprises.
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 Serving these at our family brunch sparked a lot of memories of previous travels and everyone ended up comparing their favorite element from each fusion treat.
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 before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, average)
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g.
Save Enjoy this playful array of desserts at your next gathering. They make a striking display and kick off delicious conversation.
Recipe Guide
- → What makes these desserts fusion?
They blend global techniques and ingredients like matcha, miso, chai spices, and sesame for inventive sweets.
- → Can I substitute miso in brownies?
Yes, tahini offers a similar savory note if miso is unavailable, creating a nutty twist in texture and flavor.
- → How do I serve chai tiramisu?
Layer in cups for personal servings, and allow flavors to meld in the fridge for at least two hours before serving.
- → Is black sesame paste easy to find?
It's available at most Asian grocery stores; peanut butter can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
- → Are these desserts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all options use dairy, eggs, and flavorings but no meat or gelatin, making them vegetarian-friendly.
- → What drinks pair well with these desserts?
Try green tea, espresso, or dessert wine to complement the complex flavors and textures in each sweet.
- → What tools do I need?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, a baking pan, a sifter, a spatula, and serving cups or glasses.