Save A creative collection of globally inspired desserts blending flavors and techniques from around the world: matcha&miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars.
I first explored fusion desserts after tasting black sesame treats overseas, and experimenting with complementary flavors like chai and matcha brought a whole new excitement to my baking routine.
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 These desserts sparked fun debates in our family about favorite flavors: everyone picking different ones, but always agreeing the selection brings us together around the table.
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 miso and cookie ingredients for allergens
Nutritional Information
Per serving (average): Calories 320, Total Fat 19 g, Carbohydrates 32 g, Protein 6 g
Save Let your creativity lead: try swapping flavors for a personal twist or pair with your favorite tea and enjoy.
Recipe FAQ
- → What gives the brownies a unique flavor?
Matcha and white miso create a marbled, umami-rich twist, blending earthy tea with subtle savory notes.
- → Can the chai tiramisu be made without chai tea?
Yes, green tea or espresso can substitute for chai, adding new flavors while keeping the creamy texture.
- → How do you achieve a marbled effect in brownies?
Gently fold in the miso paste to leave visible streaks, giving a balanced and artistic look to the dessert.
- → Where can I find black sesame paste?
Asian grocery stores typically carry black sesame paste. Peanut butter can be used for a different flavor.
- → What is the texture of the cheesecake bars?
They feature a creamy filling over a chocolate cookie crumb crust, with a nutty richness from sesame paste.
- → Are these desserts vegetarian friendly?
Yes, the selection uses dairy, eggs, and plant-based ingredients, suitable for a vegetarian diet.