Save Global Dessert Mash-Ups bring together flavors and methods from around the world, offering creative ways to experience sweets by combining classic techniques and international ingredients. Experience the excitement of fusion desserts in these imaginative recipes that blend East and West.
I discovered fusion desserts during a trip to Tokyo, and ever since, I have loved experimenting with unexpected ingredient combinations. This trio of matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars was a hit at our last family get-together.
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 My family loves sharing desserts at the table, and these mash-ups are always the first to disappear from the assortment. Making these together sparked lively conversation about traditions in each region.
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 packaging labels for possible additives or allergens in miso and cookies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 320 calories, 19 g total fat, 32 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein, calculated as average across all three desserts.
Save Finish these desserts with a sprinkle of cocoa or matcha for extra flair. Share your favorites with friends—they make wonderful conversation starters.
Recipe Questions
- → What flavor combinations are featured?
These desserts blend matcha with miso, chai spices, and black sesame for unique taste profiles.
- → How long does preparation and baking take?
Total time is about one hour, including prep and baking for all three desserts.
- → Are any ingredients easily substituted?
You can swap white miso for tahini, chai for green tea, and black sesame paste for peanut butter.
- → What tools are needed for these desserts?
Common kitchen items like mixing bowls, an electric mixer, baking pans, and spatulas are needed.
- → Are these treats vegetarian friendly?
Yes, all desserts are crafted with vegetarian ingredients and options for flexibility.
- → What allergens should I be aware of?
They contain dairy, eggs, gluten, soy (from miso), and sesame; check ingredients if needed.