A minimum joint thickness can be assured by incorporating beads or particles having a diameter corresponding to the joint thickness desired and which are infusible at the brazing temperature. Preferably such particles are formed of high-melting metals, metal oxides, ceramics, or cermets and are mixed into the alloy paste prior to fusing. In a preferred embodiment, the particle-containing paste is mixed with a non-flux carrier to facilitate application to the elements to be brazed. Exemplary application methods may include painting, rolling, screening, or extrusion dispensing. Brazing alloys in accordance with the invention are useful in bonding ceramics to ceramics, ceramics to metals, and metals to metals.