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This past weekend I took a trip to Hoboken, NJ. Visiting Carlo’s Bake Shop, home of the Cake Boss, had always been on my bucket list while I am here in New York City. Originally opened by Carlo Guastaffero in 1910, the bakery was acquired by Bartolo Valastro Sr. in 1964. When he passed away, matriarch Mary Valastro and her children Grace, Maddalena, Mary, Lisa and master baker Bartolo Jr. “Buddy” Valastro kept the bakery going and have made it into what it is today. Buddy now has his own TV show on TLC called Cake Boss. The first time I was in Hoboken the line for the bakery was horrendous. It was also very hot so I didn’t fancy standing in line for an hour or more. This past time however, I got extremely lucky. After spending the day exploring and taking photos, I went to the bakery shortly before heading home. I only waited 10 minutes in line before I could go inside the bakery (you’re given a ticket and when your number is called you can place your order). Once inside I had a hard time condensing my list into a ‘reasonable’ amount that didn’t make me a glutton.
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First, I went with the signature cannoli, which is filled with a chocolate chip ricotta. They fill these on the spot so eat it as soon as you can, while the cannoli is still crisp.
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Second, I chose a peanut butter cookie ($1.50). Do yourself a favor and don’t make the same mistake I did: get more than one of these babies! Like 10!! This cookie is perfect in every way.
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Third, I got the Nutella Linzer Tart cookie ($3), a simple classic.
And finally, I got a miniature milk chocolate mousse cake ($6.99). The chocolate mousse consists of a moist chocolate cake filled with mousse resembling the texture of whipped cream and coated with chocolate ganache. Delicious. On my next trip there I’ve made a mental note to try the cupcakes and Lobster Tails.
Carlo’s Bake Shop: 95 Washington St, Hoboken, NJ 07030