Carol Becker

As owner of William Greenberg Desserts, a New York City Upper East Side institution, Carol Becker is the caretaker of over 70 years of tradition. Their Black & White Cookies have been called the best in the city, the brownies have appeared on AMC’s Mad Men and the baked goods like Challah and Rugelach have become integral to the holidays, celebrations and everyday lives of many. Since taking over twelve years ago, Becker has ushered the beloved Madison Avenue destination into a new era while respecting its heritage and deepening community ties through philanthropy. Opened in 1946, William Greenberg Desserts makes American and eastern European pastries like rich, fruit filled Hamantaschen butter cookies, delicious shortbread Linzer Tarts and delectable fruit pies for legions of fans throughout the city and the country through its mail order. In addition, Becker has ushered in a new era with items like lemon bars, cake pops, mini bundt cakes and a wide variety of biscotti. She has also added her own twist to the signature Black & White Cookies offering custom colors to reflect customers’ special interests and occasions Working with organizations like City Harvest, Meals on Wheels and the American Cancer Society, Becker continues to deepen ties in the community and take a role in New York’s philanthropic world. Her first cookbook, The William Greenberg Desserts: Classic Desserts from an Iconic New York City Bakery, was published in 2019.