Save This creative collection of globally inspired desserts blends flavors and techniques from around the world for a unique sweet experience. From matcha-miso brownies to chai tiramisu and black sesame cheesecake bars, these mash-ups reinvent classics with a fusion twist.
I first made these desserts for a multicultural potluck, and everyone was fascinated by the surprising flavor pairings. Each treat sparked conversations—and requests for the recipes!
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 family enjoys testing out these unexpected flavor pairings together after dinner. It’s fun to hear everyone’s reactions and vote for favorites!
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 ingredient labels for possible allergens.
Nutritional Information
Average per serving: Calories 320, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 6 g
Save Let your creativity shine and share these global dessert mash-ups at your next gathering—they always spark delight and conversation.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I achieve a marbled effect in brownies?
Gently fold miso paste into the brownie batter, leaving visible streaks before baking to create a marbled look.
- → Can I substitute ingredients if I don’t have miso or black sesame?
Try tahini in place of miso and peanut butter for black sesame, offering a different flavor twist while maintaining texture.
- → What’s the best way to layer mini chai tiramisu cups?
Dip ladyfingers quickly in cooled chai tea, layer in cups, and top with mascarpone mixture and spices for balanced flavors.
- → How long should cheesecake bars be chilled before serving?
Chill after baking for at least two hours to set the texture for clean slicing and creamy results.
- → Are all desserts vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, all featured desserts use vegetarian ingredients, including dairy and eggs, with options for custom substitutions.
- → Which beverage pairs well with these desserts?
Green tea and dessert wine complement the varied global flavors, enhancing taste and presentation.