Quickly display links to multiple apps, folders and files

Hello,

Is there a way to add file shortcuts to Windows Explorer Favorites rather than only folders?

When I try to drag a file shortcut into Favorites, it says "Cannot place in Favorites"

I'd like to have a single window which displays links to a variety of different apps, folders or files. In other words, I'd like something similar to the desktop but which does not require icons and can be opened or closed with a single click from the taskbar.

Thanks