C is for Cookies, Cakes and More: Here are the Most Popular Desserts Starting with C and Ending with Crumbs

Under the blanket of the third English alphabet letter ‘C,’ some classics that have been making their rounds on the snack table for decades if not centuries show up. Now you can create them in your kitchen and eat them too!

Are you feeling peckish for something petite, no-bake, and pleasantly sweet but lacking the energy for elaborate embellishments? Then we have some desserts that will be a cakewalk featuring the Cs of the alphabet series!

No frills, no fancy piping, or elaborate toppings for these, for the base takes the crown. Featuring a no-bake cheesecake, simple cupcakes, cookies, and creme brulee, they are easy to make and need no extra steps to make.

1. Cheesecake

Who doesn't love cheesecake, and what could be better when you can make your own for a fraction of the cost of bakery cheesecakes? Experiment with different crusts and fillings by mixing in flavors like lemon zest, vanilla, or fruit preserves. The baked ones are pure perfection on your plate but are tricky to make, so here is a no-bake recipe:

Ingredients:

• 250 gm digestive biscuits
• 100 gm butter, melted
• 500 gm cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup condensed milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

• Crush the digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Mix with the melted butter. Press into the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Beat in the condensed milk and vanilla until well combined.
• Pour the cream cheese mixture over the chilled biscuit base and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, until set.
• Run a knife around the edge of the pan and remove the rim. Cut into slices and serve. Store in the refrigerator.

2. Cookies

Nothing beats a fresh-baked cookie, whether you go classic with chocolate chip or get creative with new flavors, homemade cookies are so much more satisfying than the store-bought ones. Experiment with different doughs and mix-ins to find your favorite combination. Decorating is optional but adds fun; try rolling dough balls in sprinkles or coloring sugar. Bake in batches and share your treats with neighbors and friends.

Ingredients:

• 250 gm butter, softened
• 150 gm sugar
• 1 egg
• 500 gm all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, salt and baking soda together.
• Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
• Scoop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges.
• Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to your kitchen top to cool completely.

3. Cupcakes

Cupcakes are the perfect make-ahead treat for any occasion, kids or adults equally love these tiny desserts. Play with different cake and frosting flavors like vanilla, chocolate or red velvet. Frosting can be as simple as a swirl on top. For special occasions, add sprinkles, candies or homemade decorations like marshmallows. Present in a cute container for easy sharing.

Ingredients:

• 110 gm butter, softened
• 110 gm sugar
• 1 egg
• 110 gm self-raising flour
• 60 ml milk

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a 12-hole cupcake tin with paper cases.
• Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
• Sift over the flour and fold into the mixture along with the milk until just combined.
• Spoon the mixture evenly into the paper cases.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until well risen and the tops spring back when lightly pressed.
• Allow to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Enjoy plain or decorate as desired once cooled.

4. Creme Brulee

This elegant dessert is easier than it looks. Simply bake a vanilla custard until it’s just set. Melt sugar in a pan and use a torch to caramelize the tops just before serving. No torch? No problem; broil the sugar in the oven.

Ingredients:

• 750 ml heavy cream
• 125 gm granulated sugar
• 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
• 6 large egg yolks
• 50 gm white sugar for topping

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 160°C and place six 150ml ramekins in a large baking pan.
• In a medium saucepan, heat cream and 125 gm sugar just until bubbles form around the edges. Remove from heat and add the vanilla bean seeds and pod. Let it steep for 30 minutes.
• In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks until pale yellow. Slowly whisk the heated cream mixture into yolks. Strain through a fine mesh sieve into a large measuring cup or pitcher.
• Divide the mixture evenly among ramekins. Fill the baking pan with enough hot water to come halfway up the sides of the ramekins.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, until centers are just set (they will still be a bit wobbly). Remove ramekins from the water and let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
• When ready to serve, sprinkle 15 gm white sugar evenly over each creme brulee. Place ramekins on a baking sheet and broil on high heat, watching closely, until sugar caramelizes, about 2-3 minutes.