Buttercup Bake Shop

Introduction / Overview

In a city where the dessert landscape is as competitive as the skyline is tall, Buttercup Bake Shop has managed to maintain its status as a quintessential New York institution. Founded by Jennifer Appel—who also co-founded the legendary Magnolia Bakery—Buttercup was established in 1999 to bring old-fashioned, high-quality American desserts to the local community. The shop at 167 Madison Avenue continues this legacy, offering a charming escape from the Midtown bustle. It is a place where the "small-town" feel of a neighborhood bakery meets the sophisticated demands of the New York palate, specializing in everything from buttercream-heavy cupcakes to nostalgic puddings that have garnered fans like Martha Stewart and Al Roker.

The philosophy at Buttercup is simple: bake from scratch every day using the finest ingredients. While many modern bakeries lean into avant-garde fusion, Buttercup thrives on the classics. The shop is celebrated for its inviting ambiance, where the smell of sugar and fresh butter greets you at the door. It serves as a reliable local hub for birthday celebrations, office catering, and those "just because" afternoon treats. Whether you are a long-time resident or a professional working in the surrounding Flatiron and Murray Hill districts, Buttercup provides a consistent, high-standard experience that has made it a staple of the New York dessert scene for over two decades.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 167 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, Buttercup Bake Shop sits at the vibrant intersection of Madison Avenue and 33rd Street. This central Midtown South location makes it exceptionally accessible for locals. It is a mere few blocks away from the Empire State Building, making it a convenient stop for those navigating the heart of Manhattan. The shop's ground-floor presence on a major avenue ensures it is easy to find, whether you are on foot or arriving via public transit.

For subway commuters, the bakery is perfectly positioned near several major lines. The 33rd Street station (6 train) is just a one-minute walk away, while the 34th Street-Herald Square hub (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W trains and PATH) is only a few blocks to the west. This makes it an ideal "on-the-way" stop for those heading home after work or traveling between boroughs. While the shop is petite and designed primarily for "grab-and-go" service, its strategic location allows it to serve as a central point for delivery throughout Manhattan, reaching residents from the Upper East Side down to Wall Street.

Services Offered

• Daily Scratch Baking: All cupcakes, cakes, and bars are prepared on-site daily to ensure maximum freshness.
• Custom Cake Consultation: Specializing in layered cakes for weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries with custom inscriptions and decorations.
• Corporate Catering: Dedicated catering services for Midtown offices, offering large-scale dessert platters and individual cupcake boxes.
• Delivery Throughout Manhattan: A robust delivery network that brings fresh treats directly to your doorstep or office building.
• Gluten-Free Options: A growing menu of gluten-free cupcakes and brownies, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy premium sweets.
• Specialty Beverage Bar: A selection of coffees, teas, and lattes designed to pair perfectly with their rich dessert offerings.

Features / Highlights

• Famous Buttercream Frosting: Renowned for its rich, smooth, and traditional buttercream that defines the signature Buttercup taste.
• Innovative Flavor Profiles: While classic, the menu includes modern favorites like Ube (Filipino Yam) and Red Velvet.
• Bundt Cake Slices: For those who prefer a denser, more moist cake experience, the shop offers individual slices of their popular bundt cakes.
• Minimalist, Cozy Interior: The shop features a clean, professional layout that allows the colorful desserts to take center stage.
• High-Profile Recognition: A bakery that has been featured on national television and in literature, cementing its place in New York culture.
• Variety of Sizes: Options ranging from mini-cupcakes for light snacking to full-sheet cakes for large events.

Contact Information

Address: 167 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA

Phone: (212) 350-4144

Operating Hours: Monday–Thursday 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Friday 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Saturday 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; Sunday 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

What is Worth Choosing

If it is your first time visiting Buttercup Bake Shop, you cannot leave without trying their famous Banana Pudding. Frequently cited as one of the best in the city, it features layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and Nilla wafers that create a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth experience. For cupcake enthusiasts, the Ube Cupcake is a standout local favorite. It features a super-moist Filipino purple yam cake topped with a perfectly balanced Ube cream cheese frosting and a hint of crystal sprinkles for texture. It is a sophisticated choice for those who want something sweet but not overwhelming.

Another strong recommendation is the Lemon or Coconut Bundt Cake slices. Unlike standard cupcakes, these slices offer a denser, richer texture that many locals find even more satisfying. If you are buying for a group, the "Traditional Assortment" of cupcakes is a crowd-pleaser, typically featuring their signature vanilla and chocolate varieties with various frostings. Finally, for those looking for a decadent bar, the Campfire Bar (S'mores) is highly rated; its toasted graham cracker crust and torched meringue topping provide a perfect "messy but yummy" treat that captures the spirit of the shop perfectly. Pro-tip for the locals: if you are ordering multiple cupcakes for work, specify if you need individual containers, as the shop usually packs them in larger bundles to be eco-friendly.

Would you like me to help you check if they have any seasonal cake slices available for your visit today?

Buttercup Bake Shop

167 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, USA