Save A creative collection of globally inspired desserts blending flavors and techniques from around the world—imagine the fusion of matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars, all in one dessert tray.
I first developed these recipes when trying to find new twists on classic treats that everyone could enjoy. Sharing them at family gatherings sparked lively conversations about food memories from our travels.
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 desserts at birthday parties became a fun challenge as my family tried to guess the surprise ingredient in each 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. Always double-check miso and cookie ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein.
Save Try pairing your mash-ups with green tea or a dessert wine to highlight their flavors. These treats will spark conversation and delight your taste buds!
Common Questions
- → What flavors stand out in these desserts?
Key flavors include earthy matcha, salty miso, aromatic chai spices, and nutty black sesame, creating rich, complex profiles.
- → Can substitutions be made for specialty ingredients?
Yes! Try tahini instead of miso, peanut butter for black sesame paste, or use espresso or green tea in tiramisu cups.
- → What is the recommended baking pan size?
A 20x20 cm (8-inch) baking pan is ideal for brownies and cheesecake bars; it ensures proper thickness and baking.
- → Are these desserts suitable for vegetarians?
All treats use vegetarian-friendly ingredients like butter, eggs, dairy, and no meat-derived products.
- → What beverage pairs well with these treats?
Pair with green tea, quality dessert wines, or aromatic chai for a delightful and balanced dessert experience.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store cooled baked goods in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days to preserve flavor and texture.