I've searched around but couldn't find a definitive answer, so... I just ran CCleaner on my computer and now my Recent Documents is gone from my Start menu. I've tried enabling/disabling it in the Start menu Properties/Customize/Advanced menu, but it does nothing. My user folder has a hidden 'Recent" folder, but no 'My Recent Documents'. The Administrator user directory does have a 'My Recent Documents' however. This reminds me why I'm hesitant about using 'cleaners' on my computers (especially when the interface isn't detailed enough to show what it's doing or will do until it's actually done).
Maybe these will help.
http://www.techspot.com/vb/all/windows/t-1...ms-problem.html
http://www.winhelponline.com/blog/clear-re...-recent-folder/
http://www.vistaheads.com/forums/microsoft...start-menu.html
I have encountered another problem with the Recent Items folder in the past. I have used a registry cleaner and it changed something in the registry. The Recent Items folder is still there is the Start Menu, however nothing will be listed in it even if I have opened quite a number of files. I tried enabling and disabling it too by going through Properties/Customize/Advanced menu but still I had that problem. I was able to fix the problem by doing a registry tweak but I can't remember how that was done really, since it was a bit complex.
Have you tried unchecking "Recent Documents" in CCleaner\Windows\Window Explorer"? You haven't mentioned that.
Recent Documents
When you open a document or file in Windows, a record of this is stored under the Recent Documents list on the Start menu. Selecting this option will clear this list. (Note: The documents themselves are left untouched.)