Our Hot Cross Buns are a delightful blend of tradition and taste, enjoyed during Lent through the Easter season. These spiced, sweet buns represent one of the most beloved seasonal traditions in baking, and at William Greenberg Desserts, we honor this heritage with our own carefully crafted version that has been warming hearts and homes for generations.
A Rich Tradition Baked to Perfection
These spiced, sweet buns are studded with plump raisins or currants and topped with our signature cross made from icing, symbolizing their rich historical and cultural significance. Each Hot Cross Bun we create carries forward centuries of tradition while maintaining the exceptional quality standards that have made William Greenberg Desserts a New York institution since 1946.
The iconic cross isn't just decoration—it's a meaningful symbol that connects each bite to the deep spiritual and cultural traditions surrounding the Easter season. Our bakers apply each icing cross by hand, ensuring that every bun meets our exacting standards for both appearance and symbolism.
Warm Spices That Evoke Comfort and Community
Their warm flavor, laced with aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, evokes feelings of comfort and community that make these seasonal treats so special. The careful balance of spices creates a fragrance that fills our bakery and transports you to a place of warmth and tradition.
Our Signature Spice Blend Features:
- Cinnamon - Providing warmth and sweetness
- Nutmeg - Adding depth and aromatic complexity
- Traditional spicing - Balanced to honor authentic recipes
- Premium quality - Only the finest spices for exceptional flavor
This thoughtful spicing makes our Hot Cross Buns perfect for sharing over tea or coffee, creating those special moments of connection that define the Easter season.
Perfect for Every Easter Tradition
Whether toasted with a generous spread of butter or enjoyed straight from the oven, our Hot Cross Buns bring a simple yet deeply satisfying pleasure to each bite. Their versatility makes them ideal for various Easter traditions and celebrations:
Breakfast & Brunch:
- Toasted and buttered for a traditional start to Easter morning
- Served warm with honey or jam for special family breakfasts
- Perfect accompaniment to Easter brunch gatherings
Afternoon Tea:
- Classic pairing with Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea
- Elegant addition to Easter afternoon celebrations
- Wonderful for sharing with family and friends
Evening Comfort:
- Warmed and enjoyed as an evening treat
- Perfect with coffee or hot chocolate
- Comforting end to Easter celebrations
Seasonal Availability for Lent Through Easter
Our Hot Cross Buns are available during the traditional season from Lent through Easter, making them a special treat that marks this meaningful time of year. This seasonal availability adds to their significance, creating anticipation and making each bite more precious.
Seasonal Highlights:
- Traditional timing - Available during Lent and Easter season
- Limited availability - Making them extra special
- Fresh daily - Baked to ensure optimal flavor and texture
- Authentic tradition - Honoring centuries-old customs
The William Greenberg Touch
What sets our Hot Cross Buns apart is the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that has earned us recognition as a 2025 Food & Wine Global Tastemaker. Every element, from our carefully selected raisins to our signature icing cross, reflects the standards of excellence that define our bakery.
Quality Elements:
- Premium ingredients - Only the finest raisins, spices, and flour
- Traditional techniques - Time-honored baking methods
- Handcrafted crosses - Each icing cross applied with care
- Fresh daily baking - Ensuring optimal texture and flavor
- Seasonal dedication - Special attention during Easter season
A Symbol of Heritage and Celebration
Our Hot Cross Buns represent more than just seasonal baking—they're a connection to heritage, tradition, and the joy of sharing special foods with loved ones. In New York's diverse culinary landscape, these traditional buns offer a taste of authentic Easter celebration that transcends cultural boundaries.
The combination of sweet, spiced dough with the symbolic icing cross creates both a delicious treat and a meaningful connection to the Easter season. It's this blend of flavor and significance that has made Hot Cross Buns a cherished tradition for centuries.
Available at Both NYC Locations
Ready to experience our traditional Hot Cross Buns? Visit us during the Lent and Easter season at either of our convenient New York locations:
Upper East Side Flagship
1100 Madison Avenue (between 82nd & 83rd Streets)
Where our Easter traditions come alive
Upper West Side Location
285 Amsterdam Avenue (between 73rd & 74th Streets)
Bringing seasonal specialties across the park
Planning Easter Celebrations?
Call ahead to ensure availability and reserve Hot Cross Buns for your Easter gatherings. Our seasonal specialties are popular and we want to make sure you can share these traditional treats with your loved ones.
Simple Pleasures, Deep Satisfaction
In our fast-paced world, our Hot Cross Buns offer something increasingly rare: a connection to tradition, the pleasure of authentic flavors, and the joy of sharing meaningful food with others. Each bite carries the warmth of centuries-old traditions while delivering the exceptional quality that defines William Greenberg Desserts.
Come taste the tradition that has warmed hearts for generations. Experience the perfect balance of spices, the sweetness of raisins, and the symbolic beauty of our handcrafted icing crosses. Discover why our Hot Cross Buns have become an essential part of New York's Easter celebrations.
William Greenberg Desserts' Hot Cross Buns honor Easter traditions with authentic spices, premium ingredients, and handcrafted icing crosses. Available seasonally at our Madison Avenue and Amsterdam Avenue locations since 1946.