If you’ve ever savored the tangy, moist, and perfectly sweet Lemon Loaf from Starbucks, you’ll be thrilled to know you can recreate it at home. This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is easy to make, packed with citrusy goodness, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Starbucks at Home: Skip the lines and enjoy the same great taste right in your kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: No need to spend on a pricey slice—this recipe yields an entire loaf!
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward directions make this recipe accessible for any baker.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or glaze to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
- Vanilla extract
For the glaze:
- Powdered sugar
- Lemon juice
- Lemon zest
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the sugar and eggs, beating until light and creamy.
- Gradually add the oil, sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8-10 slices
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Extra Lemon Flavor: Add a teaspoon of lemon extract for an even more intense citrus taste.
- Healthier Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and swap some sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into smaller pans to create mini lemon loaves, perfect for gifting.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
- Reheating: For a warm slice, heat it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
FAQs
What makes this recipe taste like Starbucks?
The combination of fresh lemon juice, zest, and a creamy glaze mimics the flavors of Starbucks’ Lemon Loaf perfectly.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Can I make this loaf dairy-free?
Yes, substitute sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based milk for the glaze if needed.
Why is my loaf dense?
Overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder can lead to a dense texture. Be gentle when mixing!
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use two loaf pans or a larger pan, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I zest a lemon?
Use a microplane or the smallest side of a box grater to remove only the yellow outer layer of the lemon. Avoid the white pith, as it’s bitter.
Can I add poppy seeds to this recipe?
Yes, stir in a tablespoon or two of poppy seeds to make a lemon poppy seed loaf.
How do I ensure the glaze is not too runny?
Add the lemon juice to the powdered sugar gradually, mixing until you reach your desired consistency.
What can I serve with this lemon loaf?
Enjoy it with a cup of coffee, tea, or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful pairing.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The sweet and tangy flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf recipe brings the beloved coffee shop treat to your home with ease. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or indulging yourself, this loaf promises to deliver the tangy, moist, and utterly delicious experience you crave. Bake it today and savor the citrusy goodness!
Print
Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Starbucks-inspired Lemon Loaf is perfectly moist and bursting with bright lemon flavor. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, it’s the perfect treat to pair with your morning coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Loaf:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon extract
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, sour cream, oil, and melted butter until smooth.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract.
- Combine the Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Loaf:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Lemon Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Garnish with lemon zest if desired.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra lemon flavor, you can add an additional 1/2 tsp of lemon extract or more lemon zest to the batter.
- Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.