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Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 68 reviews

This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is a moist, tender cake bursting with fresh lemon flavor, topped with a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, this recipe combines a light crumb with bright citrus notes, mimicking the popular café dessert at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 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

Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and salt for a balanced rise and flavor.
  3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil, and melted butter together until smooth and well combined for a creamy batter base.
  4. Add Flavors: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract to the wet mixture to infuse the batter with strong lemon and vanilla aromas.
  5. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf dense.
  6. Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface. Place it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool the Loaf: Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and prepares it for glazing.
  8. Make the Lemon Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency to be pourable but not too runny.
  9. Glaze and Serve: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra color and flavor.
  10. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the lemon loaf into pieces and serve as a delightful citrus treat with coffee or tea.

Notes

  • For a tangier flavor, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
  • Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the loaf light and tender.
  • The loaf can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
  • Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
  • You can substitute lemon extract with additional lemon zest and juice if preferred.

Keywords: lemon loaf, Starbucks copycat, lemon cake, lemon glaze, citrus dessert, homemade lemon loaf, moist lemon bread

Find it online: https://thedishspot.com/starbucks-copycat-lemon-loaf-recipe/