Carol Becker

As owner of William Greenberg Desserts, a New York City Upper East Side institution, Carol Becker is the caretaker of almost 80 years of tradition. The bakery’s Black & White Cookies have been called the best in the city, the brownies have appeared on AMC’s Mad Men and baked goods like Challah and Rugelach are integral to holidays, celebrations and everyday lives of many. Since taking over fifteen years ago, Becker has ushered the beloved Madison Avenue destination into a new era while respecting its heritage.

Opened in 1946, William Greenberg Desserts makes American and eastern European pastries like fruit filled Hamantaschen cookies, shortbread Linzer Tarts and delectable fruit pies for legions of fans throughout the city and the country through its mail order. Growing up on the Upper East Side, Becker knew that William Greenberg Desserts wasn’t just a bakery but an integral part of a community. To maintain that heritage, she chose to continue with the original recipes prepared by the bakers who have been with the bakery for years. 

In addition to maintaining the bakery’s high quality, Becker has ushered in a new era. She has added lemon bars, mini bundt cakes and custom colored Black & White Cookies among others. With a deep respect for heritage and community and a love of fine baked goods, Carol Becker has become a caretaker of tradition while updating William Greenberg Desserts for a whole new generation.