Hamentashen - still very popular even though they are out of season
I visited William Greenberg Desserts last week and I have to report that this bakery, open since 1942, is still as popular as ever. It’s one of the few places I have visited that really feels like an old fashioned neighborhood bakery. In the short time I was there, the super-friendly staff greeted a number of moms and their small children by name. There were also older, neighborhood regulars too. I got the feeling some had been coming here for their favorite comfort baked good for many years. It was a huge contrast to the feeling I get from in the bigger chains like Crumbs. That experience is more like fast food–a bit cold. Like nearby Martines Chocolates–William Greenberg gave off a very warm vibe and reminded me of the New York City I grew up in.
Black and white cookies (small $1.50, large $3.50) are one of the top sellers
Clearly, many locals visit William Greenberg for the black and white cookies, available in small and large and also in a variety of colors. They often have a special flavor tied to a current event such as the Yankees being in the world series.
Chocolate Brownies ($3.00) individually wrapped
The brownies are also very popular. They’re most, chocolaty and perfect for transporting since they’re individually wrapped.
Raspberry tart
Though I didn’t try some of the more fancy offerings, the raspberry tart and meringue tarts looked fantastic.
Schnecken (Pecan sticky buns -$2.00 small, $3.50 large)
The schnecken (aka pecan sticky buns) are also very popular with the locals.
Poppy Hamentashen
My favorite item at the bakery is definitely the hamentashen–I know it’s out of season–but I think it’s one of the best in the city–buttery and browned to perfection. Available in many flavors (raspberry, prune, poppy, and apricot) and in small ($1.50) and large ($3.50) sizes.
William Greenberg Desserts is located at 1100 Madison Avenue (83rd). They also have a new location in the Plaza Food Hall. Their website is here. Follow DessertBuzz on Twitter.
Thank you Niko for this amazing post, featuring the homemade treats from William Greensberg desserts. I am definitely making a bakery trip here this week, to try the brownies, pecan sticky buns and hamentashen!!
Thanks again, and Have a great day!
Left by Ashley on October 1st, 2012