Pin 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 experimented with these mash-ups for a family potluck. Mixing Asian-inspired flavors with classic baked goods brought excited reactions and sparked lots of recipe requests. Now, these fusion treats are a staple for gatherings!
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.
Pin We gathered everyone around the kitchen island to taste-test each dessert. Kids loved helping swirl the miso into the brownie batter, while adults debated which flavor combo was the best. Baking these mash-ups became a fun family ritual!
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 any allergens before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (average): Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g
Pin Let your creativity shine by swapping flavors or adding toppings. These desserts are guaranteed to spark conversation at your next gathering!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can matcha-miso brownies be made without miso?
Yes, you can substitute white miso paste with tahini or omit for a pure matcha-chocolate taste.
- → How do you ensure tiramisu ladyfingers stay soft and moist?
Quickly dip ladyfingers in cooled chai tea and layer promptly to avoid sogginess while absorbing flavor.
- → What alternative exists for black sesame paste?
Try peanut butter or almond paste for nutty undertones when black sesame paste isn’t available.
- → Can these desserts be made ahead?
Yes, all three desserts benefit from chilling and can be prepared a day before serving for best texture.
- → Are these treats suitable for vegetarians?
All components use vegetarian ingredients, making them perfect for most vegetarian diets.
- → What beverages pair well with these desserts?
Serve alongside green tea, dessert wines, or espresso to complement fusion flavors and textures.