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 was inspired to experiment with dessert mash-ups after tasting a black sesame cheesecake in Tokyo and spiced tiramisu in Delhi. Blending these influences at home became a delicious way to travel with every bite!
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 We love to make these desserts for family celebrations: everyone gets to try something new, and favorites are quickly discovered!
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 check ingredient packaging for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g (per serving, average)
Pin it Try a dessert mash-up for your next get-together: it's a creative way to bring global flavors to every table!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What flavor profile do matcha-miso brownies offer?
Matcha brings an earthy taste, balanced by chocolate's richness and a touch of savory umami from miso paste.
- → Can I substitute ingredients in the desserts?
White miso can be swapped for tahini, chai can be replaced by green tea or espresso, and black sesame by peanut butter.
- → How do I achieve a marbled effect in the brownies?
Gently fold in miso paste until streaks remain, then bake as directed for a visually appealing marbled look.
- → What tools are needed for these desserts?
You’ll need mixing bowls, a baking pan, an electric mixer, and serving cups or glasses for easy preparation.
- → Are these desserts suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, all dishes use vegetarian ingredients. Double-check for allergens if dietary restrictions apply.
- → How should the cheesecake bars be served?
After chilling, slice the bars and serve them with dessert wine or green tea for a delightful treat.