Pin it 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 desserts for a multicultural potluck, and each treat sparked conversation about their origins. They're a fun way to introduce new flavors and techniques to family and friends.
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 it My family especially loves how each dessert represents a different culture, and we sometimes serve them at birthday parties for a global twist.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, electric mixer, 20x20 cm 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
Average per serving: 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein
Pin it Serve these vibrant desserts together for a true mash-up experience that will delight guests and spark curiosity. Fusion desserts are a playful way to expand your baking repertoire.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a marbled effect in matcha-miso brownies?
Gently fold in the miso paste after mixing the batter. Stop when streaks remain for a striking marbled look and distinct flavor bursts.
- → Can I substitute white miso in the brownies?
If white miso is unavailable, tahini or even almond butter can give a similar savory undertone in the brownies.
- → Is it possible to make chai tiramisu with other teas?
Yes, try strong green tea or espresso instead of chai for a different flavor profile in your tiramisu cups.
- → Where can I find black sesame paste?
Asian grocery stores usually carry black sesame paste. Peanut butter works as an alternative if sesame paste is unavailable.
- → What is the best way to slice these desserts cleanly?
Allow brownies and cheesecake bars to cool completely, then chill before slicing. Use a sharp knife cleaned between cuts for neat portions.
- → Are these desserts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all included desserts use vegetarian-friendly ingredients. Always double-check labels for hidden animal products.