Pin It This creative collection of globally inspired desserts brings exciting flavors and techniques together in every bite. You'll find matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars—truly a mash-up of delicious traditions.
I still remember the first time I made matcha-miso brownies: the earthy matcha met the savory miso so unexpectedly, my friends begged for the recipe. Sharing these global mash-ups is such a joy—they always spark conversation and curiosity.
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 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.
Pin It 
For my family, these dessert mash-ups have become a fun way to celebrate birthdays and holidays. Everyone gets to try something new, and the conversations—about flavors and food traditions—make the kitchen lively!
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 (from miso), and sesame. Always double-check labels, especially for miso and cookie ingredients, to ensure allergen safety.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (average): 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein
Pin It 
Bring a touch of global inspiration to your dessert table and watch everyone ask for the recipe. These treats spark joy and connection for any occasion.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute miso in the brownies?
Yes, you can use tahini instead of miso paste to achieve a similar nutty flavor and texture in the brownies.
- → Is there a gluten-free option for these desserts?
Swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free blend in brownies and use gluten-free cookies for the cheesecake bars.
- → How long should cheesecake bars chill before serving?
Chill the bars at least 2 hours after cooling for ideal texture and easy slicing.
- → Can I use a different tea for chai tiramisu?
Yes, green tea or espresso can replace chai tea, offering unique flavor variations for tiramisu cups.
- → What drinks pair well with these desserts?
Match with dessert wine, green tea, or coffee to complement the global flavor profiles and richness.
- → Where can I find black sesame paste?
Black sesame paste is available at Asian grocery stores. Substitute with peanut butter if needed.