Episode Summary: "Best Cinnamon Buns In NYC" – All Of It by WNYC

Release Date: April 30, 2025
Host: Alison Stewart
Guests: Molly Fitzpatrick and Willa Moore (Infatuation Staff Writers)

Introduction

In this delectable episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart delves into the sweet world of cinnamon buns in New York City. Supported by Progressive Insurance, Alison welcomes listeners to explore the finest spots for these beloved pastries with insights from Molly Fitzpatrick and Willa Moore of Infatuation. The discussion not only highlights top-tier bakeries but also invites community engagement through listener recommendations, making it a comprehensive guide for cinnamon bun enthusiasts.

Exploring the Best Cinnamon Buns with Infatuation Experts

Molly Fitzpatrick and Willa Moore share their expertise on the current cinnamon bun trend in NYC. They discuss the nostalgic and comforting aspects of cinnamon buns, which have seen a surge in popularity with numerous bakeries opening dedicated to crafting the perfect bun.

• Nostalgia and Comfort:
  [02:45] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "Cinnamon rolls, buns, however you want to call them, are super nostalgic. They're super comforting. Maybe you had a Cinnabon at the mall when you were a child."

• Rise in Popularity:
  [03:08] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "A bunch of the spots on our list have actually opened within the past year or two, so we've definitely seen a rise in cinnamon buns."

Criteria for Ranking:

The Infatuation team evaluated cinnamon buns based on their resemblance to the classic Cinnabon, texture, sweetness, and overall flavor profile. They emphasized that personal preferences play a significant role, whether one prefers a gooey center or a more sophisticated, less sweet bun.

• Closeness to Cinnabon:
  [06:54] Willa Moore:
  "We ranked them in closeness to Cinnabon. So I know Willa can speak to exactly what that entailed."

• Texture and Frosting Preferences:
  [04:13] Alison Stewart:
  "Do you taste all that in that particular bun?"

  [04:40] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "Radio Bakery is maybe a little less close to a Cinnabon. It has this glaze, which sort of reminds me more of a glazed donut."

Listener Recommendations

Alison Stewart opens the lines for listener contributions, receiving a plethora of recommendations from across NYC and its surrounding areas. Each caller shares their favorite spots, highlighting unique features that set each bakery apart.

1. Super Nice, Harlem:
   [05:36] Julia from NeuroShell:
   "Super Nice in Harlem has a cinnamon bun that's just off the chains. It's so delicious... like, one of the most delicious things you can put in your mouth."

2. IKEA, Fort Lee:
   [06:09] Hank from Fort Lee:
   "IKEA Red Hook has amazing cinnamon buns. They're perfect—not overly sweet and not overly doughy."

3. Duck Island Bread Company, Huntington:
   [10:26] Sheila from Huntington:
   "Duck Island Bread Company in Huntington has a white frosted cinnamon bun that melts in your mouth and is just amazing."

4. Nosberry Farm, Queens:
   [11:05] Jeff from Queens:
   "Nosberry Farm has legendary cinnamon buns that sell out daily, with lines out the door."

5. Welcome Home, Bed Stuy:
   [12:16] Christina from Manhattan:
   "Welcome Home in Bed Stuy offers Cinnabons that are moist, buttery, and served fresh daily."

6. Gingered Peach, Lawrenceville:
   [14:58] Emily from Lawrenceville:
   "The Gingered Peach makes the best ooey gooey soft cinnamon rolls, including unique variations like the Sticky Piggy with pecans, raisins, and bacon."

7. Breads and Bakes, Pound Ridge:
   [17:04] Kristen from Chappaqua:
   "Breads and Bakes in Pound Ridge offers laminated cinnamon buns with a light glaze and a slightly sticky bottom."

8. Chloe, Bleecker:
   [15:49] Emily from Lawrenceville:
   "Chloe on Bleecker Street has a fully vegan cinnamon roll that's super soft, almost like under-baked in the middle."

9. Bredivore, Park Slope:
   [19:35] Jay from Brooklyn:
   "Bredivore in Park Slope offers a cinnamon cardamom roll that's beautifully braided with both cinnamon and cardamom flavors."

In-Depth Discussions and Insights

Trends and Techniques:

The conversation highlights the diverse techniques bakeries employ, such as using laminated dough for a flaky texture versus traditional dough for a sticky, glazed finish. The preference for frosting varies among both the hosts and listeners, with some favoring the rich cream cheese topping while others prefer a lighter glaze.

• Laminated vs. Traditional Dough:
  [13:54] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "A laminated bun would be more like a croissant. So flaky, buttery layers."

• Frosting Preferences:
  [08:55] Willa Moore:
  "I am staunchly pro frosting... One of my favorite cinnamon rolls is from Peter Pan Bakery... it's deeply glazed and sticky."

Unique Variations:

Innovative twists on the classic cinnamon bun, such as the addition of bacon or the incorporation of cardamom, showcase the evolving nature of this beloved pastry. These variations cater to diverse palates and elevate the traditional taste profile.

• Sticky Piggy Variation:
  [15:43] Emily from Lawrenceville:
  "The Sticky Piggy has pecans, raisins, and bacon. It's traditional plus a savory twist."

Notable Quotes

• On Nostalgia:
  [02:45] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "Cinnamon rolls are super nostalgic. They’re super comforting."

• On Waiting in Lines:
  [03:17] Willa Moore:
  "It was really delicious. So I always think it's up to the individual if you're in the mood for a really special treat."

• On Laminated Dough:
  [13:56] Molly Fitzpatrick:
  "The dough used in a laminated cinnamon bun would be more like a croissant."

• On Variations:
  [15:46] Willa Moore:
  "Something you'd unwrap from plastic. And it's so deeply glazed and sticky."

Conclusion

The episode of All Of It offers a mouthwatering tour of New York City's best cinnamon buns, guided by the knowledgeable Infatuation team and enriched by passionate listener contributions. From traditional favorites to innovative creations, the discussion underscores the city's culinary diversity and the timeless appeal of a well-crafted cinnamon bun. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this episode serves as a delightful guide to satisfying your sweet tooth in the Big Apple.

For more episodes and cultural insights, tune in to All Of It with Alison Stewart, weekdays from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on WNYC.