Pin Recipe 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 create these mash-ups after traveling and sampling desserts in Tokyo and Mumbai. Each bite takes me back to vivid street markets and cozy family kitchens around the globe.
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: 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 Recipe A recent get-together turned into a joyful tasting party when my family tried these three treats side by side, sharing favorites and swapping stories from our travels.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls are essential for combining ingredients smoothly. Use an electric mixer for the cheesecake and tiramisu for extra fluffiness, and don't forget serving cups for an elegant finish.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten, dairy, eggs, soy (from miso), and sesame. Double-check miso and cookie ingredients for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Average per serving: 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, 6 g protein. Great for sharing in moderation.
Pin Recipe These desserts bring an unexpected twist to any celebration. Try different flavor swaps next time to discover your own global favorite.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve the marbled effect in brownies?
Gently fold in the miso paste so streaks remain in the brownie batter before baking for a marbled appearance.
- → Can I substitute ingredients if miso or black sesame paste are unavailable?
Yes, use tahini instead of miso for brownies and peanut butter as a stand-in for black sesame paste in the cheesecake bars.
- → What alternatives exist for chai tiramisu flavoring?
Try strong green tea or espresso in place of chai to add a different flavor profile to your tiramisu cups.
- → Are these desserts suitable for vegetarians?
All included treats are vegetarian, containing dairy, eggs, and gluten. Double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
- → How long should the cheesecake bars chill before slicing?
Chill the cheesecake bars for at least 2 hours after cooling for best texture and ease of slicing.
- → What is best to pair with these desserts?
Serve alongside dessert wine or a cup of green tea for a balanced, enjoyable finish to your meal.