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Desserts are a vast and diverse world unto themselves. From chocolaty to nutty to fruity, there are so many different types of desserts that sometimes it can become overwhelming to keep track of all of them. That’s why most professional bakers and master chefs prefer to categorise their desserts in some way, and the most convenient and easiest way to categorise desserts is in alphabetical order.
This article will focus on some of the most renowned desserts, starting with the letter N. This is quite a versatile list, and the desserts all originate from various parts of the world. They are also unique in texture and taste, making use of a host of sweets as well as local and imported ingredients. However, no matter where they are from or what they are made of, they are equally delicious and widely beloved.
Check out the seven most popular desserts, beginning with the letter 'N.'
Napoleon Cake
The exact origin of this decadent multilayered cake hasn’t been pinned down yet. However, it is speculated that the French introduced the cake in Russia in the 19th century, from which period onwards, it became a beloved Russian staple. The cake typically comprises extremely thin and crumbly layers which have been filled with a succulent pastry cream. Several bakers prefer to use ingredients like buttercream and whipped cream to craft the filling to lend it a smooth and pleasing texture.
Naankhatai
These delightful and buttery sweet treats are believed to have originated in the 16th century in Surat, India, as a result of cultural exchanges between the locals and the Dutch colonists who governed Surat at the time. A popular tea-time snack, naankhatais are essentially shortbread biscuits that are made using all-purpose flour, ghee, sugar, nutmeg, and cardamom. The flaky texture of the biscuits combines well with its sweet-spicy taste, making for an enriching eating experience.
Image Credits: By Samir Nar - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0/Wikimedia Commons
Norman Tart
This is a type of apple tart originating in the Normandy region of France, which happens to be famous for its juicy apples. The flaky pastry of the tart is pumped with a filling that comprises apples, almond slices, and sugar. This dessert is distinguished from other tarts through the use of shortbread crust pastry. Additionally, this tart also comprises a rich egg custard element which helps elevate its flavour. The Norman tart is typically enjoyed with a helping of fresh cream.
New York Cheesecake
Although New York is popularly thought to be the birthplace of the cheesecake, historical records suggest that this scrumptious dessert actually has roots in ancient Greece! Even so, the New York cheesecake is one of the most iconic desserts of the world. This delightfully luscious dessert, known for its creamy texture and decadent flavour, is crafted from eggs, cream cheese, egg yolks, and sour cream or heavy cream. Some bakers will also occasionally introduce some lemon juice to the dessert to infuse with a refreshing quality.
Image Credits: Freepik
Nougat
Nougat is a sugary confection that can be traced back to 10th century Baghdad. The confection gained popularity when Arab traders introduced it in Spain in the 14th–15th centuries. Commonly used in various desserts, such as cakes, brownies, and pies, nougat generally comprises honey, sugar, whipped egg whites, and roasted nuts, such as walnuts, pistachios, and hazelnuts. The specialty boasts a chewy taste which helps produce a lovely melt-in-the-mouth sensation when bitten into.
Neapolitan Ice Cream
Also known as “Harlequin ice cream,” Neapolitan ice cream was invented in Naples, Italy, from where it derives its unique name. A fixture in Italian restaurants across the globe, this ice cream combines three distinct ice cream flavours, namely chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry into a single frozen treat. The side-by-side layering of the distinctly-hued ice creams gives the dessert a vibrant and colourful appearance; it is also enriched by the flavours of all the three ice creams.
Image Credits: CC BY-SA 3.0/Wikimedia Commons
Nut Bread
This is a soft and mouthwatering type of bread that is a big hit among home chefs and bakers. This sweet treat is admired for its complex textures, boasting a fluffy and sweet-tasting filling whilst the exterior remains crispy and flaky. This dessert is prepared by adding nuts, such as peanuts and walnuts, to a creamy batter of eggs, flour, baking powder, milk, sugar, and salt. The bread is typically toasted and garnished with butter before it is eaten.
