Save A creative collection of desserts inspired by global flavors, Global Dessert Mash-Ups brings together techniques from around the world for unique treats such as matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars. Each recipe fuses signature ingredients to delight adventurous palates.
I first discovered the joy of blending cultural dessert techniques after traveling and tasting sweets across Asia and Europe. Combining them at home led to memorable experiments that became family favorites—especially the matcha-miso brownies, which always spark curiosity and compliments.
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 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 to 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 to 30 minutes, until set. Cool, then chill at least 2 hours before slicing.
Save Making these mash-ups quickly became a weekend ritual when family gathered. The excitement of trying flavor combinations from different regions always makes dessert time special, and there's nothing like watching everyone compare the brownies to the creamy tiramisu and rich cheesecake bars.
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 potential allergens before serving.
Nutritional Information
Average per serving: Calories 320, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 6 g
Save For the most memorable mash-up dessert experience, slice and serve all three together. The variety ensures everyone finds a new favorite on the plate.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve the marbled effect in brownies?
Gently fold in the miso paste until streaks remain; avoid overmixing to keep a marbled look.
- → Can I substitute black sesame paste?
Peanut butter works as a substitute for black sesame paste, offering a similar rich texture and flavor.
- → What can I use instead of chai in tiramisu?
Green tea, espresso, or your favorite strong-brewed tea are tasty alternatives for the liquid component.
- → Is it possible to make these desserts allergen-friendly?
Check each ingredient for allergens and swap miso or cream cheese with suitable alternatives if needed.
- → How should I serve these fusion desserts?
Chill brownies and cheesecake bars before slicing; serve tiramisu cups straight from the fridge for best texture.
- → What pairing works well with these sweets?
Pair with green tea, dessert wine, or mild coffee to complement layered flavors and sweetness.