Save Global Dessert Mash-Ups is a vibrant fusion of flavors and techniques, blending classics from around the world into inventive sweets like matcha-miso brownies, chai tiramisu, and black sesame cheesecake bars. Each bite delivers a creative cultural twist, perfect for adventurous bakers seeking something new.
I first tried making these mash-up desserts for a weekend family gathering. Watching everyone's eyes light up at the unexpected flavor combinations was pure joy. The blend of creamy, fudgy, and spiced notes made it a memorable treat!
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 always looks forward to taste-testing new dessert creations together. These mash-ups spark lively discussion and bring everyone to the table for extra bites and laughs.
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 before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, average)
Calories: 320, Total Fat: 19 g, Carbohydrates: 32 g, Protein: 6 g
Save Serve these desserts with dessert wine or hot green tea, and take a culinary trip around the world with each bite. Your guests will remember these mash-ups for a long time!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute white miso in the brownies?
Yes, tahini can be used as an alternative to white miso, offering a similar texture and nutty flavor profile.
- → Is chai tiramisu suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! All the ingredients, including mascarpone, cream, and chai, fit a vegetarian diet.
- → Where can I find black sesame paste?
Black sesame paste is available in many Asian grocery stores and online, or you can substitute with peanut butter if needed.
- → What is the texture of the cheesecake bars?
The cheesecake bars are smooth and creamy with a slightly nutty flavor, balanced by a firm chocolate cookie base.
- → Can I make chai tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the tiramisu for several hours or overnight helps develop flavors and ensures a set texture.
- → What drinks pair well with these desserts?
Green tea and dessert wine are both excellent choices to enhance the fusion flavors of these sweet treats.