Few treats are as tied to New York City than the classic black-and-white cookie. And thanks to the many contemporary bakers committed to preserving this iconic cookie’s legacy, you can still bite into one of those large round half vanilla, half chocolate cookies and enjoy an instant link to the city’s culinary past.
For the past 39 years, The Bakery in New Paltz has helped give the black-and-white cookie a Hudson Valley heritage as well—serving them up alongside other traditional pastries and breads like rugelach, babka, bialys, and bagels. “We've always specialized in those New York City classics that I remember growing up,” says David Santner, The Bakery’s owner. “I love that we make the kind of authentic baked goods that you’d find there.”
But The Bakery knows how to pair their love of traditional baked goods with a little bit of whimsy, too. With every holiday, their black-and-whites get a makeover to match. Green and white for St. Patrick’s Day, orange and black for Halloween, and this month, pink and white for Valentine’s Day.
In addition to those pink-and-whites, The Bakery is turning out more old-school favorites in an array of rosy hues: mini heart-shaped cakes, raspberry and strawberry swirl cheesecakes, pink coconut macaroons, and fresh dark chocolate-covered strawberries.
And if you want something a little savory before indulging your sweet tooth, The Bakery also has a full menu of hearty sandwiches and soups that you can take to go or enjoy in the cozy cafe upstairs. Santner recommends the Purple People Eater sandwich, which comes stuffed with grilled eggplant, roasted red peppers, and provolone cheese or the vegetarian chili, which is so popular they serve it every day.
For hours and a complete menu, visit Ilovethebakery.com.
