Global Dessert Mash-Ups (Printable View)

Blend matcha, chai, and sesame in surprising desserts—brownies, tiramisu cups, and cheesecake bars.

# Ingredient List:

→ Matcha-Miso Brownies

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
02 - 1 cup bittersweet chocolate, chopped
03 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
07 - 1 tablespoon matcha powder
08 - 1 tablespoon white miso paste
09 - 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Chai Tiramisu (mini cups, optional)

10 - 1 cup mascarpone cheese
11 - 2/3 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/4 cup sugar
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
14 - 100 ml strong chai tea, cooled
15 - 12 ladyfinger biscuits
16 - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
17 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
18 - Cocoa powder, for dusting

→ Black Sesame Cheesecake Bars

19 - 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
20 - 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
21 - 14 ounces cream cheese, softened
22 - 1/2 cup sugar
23 - 2 large eggs
24 - 1/4 cup black sesame paste
25 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
26 - Pinch of salt

# How to Prepare:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Melt butter and bittersweet chocolate together in a heatproof bowl set over gently simmering water until smooth.
02 - Whisk in granulated sugar, then incorporate eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined. Sift in flour, matcha powder, and fine sea salt. Stir just enough to blend.
03 - Gently fold in white miso paste, leaving visible streaks to create a marbled effect. Transfer batter to prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the surface is set but the center remains fudgy. Cool completely before slicing.
04 - Using an electric mixer, beat mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla until thick and smooth.
05 - Briefly dip ladyfinger biscuits into cooled chai tea and arrange in serving cups or glasses. Top with mascarpone mixture and evenly dust with ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and cocoa powder. Refrigerate at least 2 hours prior to serving.
06 - Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted unsalted butter and press into a parchment-lined 8-inch square pan to form the crust.
07 - Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in black sesame paste, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Pour filling over crust and smooth the surface.
08 - Bake at 325°F for 25–30 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow to cool, then refrigerate a minimum of 2 hours before slicing.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Uses familiar baking tools found in every kitchen
  • Ideal for entertaining or potlucks each treat offers a unique twist
  • Packed with dynamic flavors sweet aromatic earthy umami and nutty
  • Easy for semi-experienced bakers all steps are clear with prep under an hour
  • Vegetarian-friendly and modifiable for multiple diets
02 -
  • High in protein and fiber for desserts
  • Easy to freeze and make ahead for parties
  • Great way to introduce unique global flavors to kids and adults
03 -
  • Always sift the dry ingredients for brownies and cheesecake to eliminate lumps and guarantee smooth batters
  • Do not overbake check for slight jiggle in the center for cheesecake and set edges for brownies
  • Toast black sesame seeds and grind into paste if store-bought is unavailable for a deep roasted aroma and flavor