Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Recipe

If you’ve ever had the irresistible Lemon Loaf from Starbucks, you know just how deliciously tangy and moist it is. This homemade version replicates the store-bought treat perfectly, with a soft, fluffy texture and a sweet, citrusy glaze that will have you coming back for more. The cake is bursting with lemon flavor, thanks to a combination of lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of lemon extract. Topped with a refreshing lemon glaze, this loaf is the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack with a cup of tea, this Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Starbucks Replica

This recipe gives you the exact same moist, flavorful lemon loaf you love from Starbucks, but with the added bonus of being able to enjoy it whenever you want.

2. Simple Ingredients

With common pantry staples like flour, eggs, and sugar, this recipe doesn’t require any special or hard-to-find ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is the fresh lemon zest and juice.

3. Moist and Fluffy Texture

The combination of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), oil, and butter creates a moist, tender crumb, just like the original lemon loaf from Starbucks. It’s light and fluffy but still rich and satisfying.

4. Zesty Lemon Flavor

Packed with lemon zest and juice, this loaf has a refreshing, citrus-forward flavor. The added lemon extract in the batter gives it an extra layer of lemony goodness.

5. Easy to Make

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. It comes together quickly and only requires one bowl for the batter. Plus, the glaze is easy to mix and pour over the top for that signature finish.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon lemon extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for garnish)

Variations

• Use Greek Yogurt: For extra tang and creaminess, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. It also adds a bit more protein to the loaf.
• Make it Dairy-Free: To make this loaf dairy-free, substitute the sour cream or yogurt with a dairy-free version (like coconut yogurt) and use dairy-free butter in the glaze.
• Add Blueberries or Poppy Seeds: For a twist on the classic, you can fold in some fresh blueberries or poppy seeds into the batter to add texture and flavor.
• Make a Layered Cake: For a more elegant presentation, you can bake this recipe in two round cake pans and stack the layers with lemon glaze in between.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until the flour is fully incorporated and the batter is smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Lemon Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the loaf is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Let It Cool

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Lemon Glaze

While the loaf is cooling, make the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze. Optionally, add lemon zest for extra flavor.

Step 8: Glaze the Loaf

Once the loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the loaf. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. Mix the ingredients just until incorporated for a light and fluffy texture.
• Let the Loaf Cool Before Glazing: Be sure the loaf is completely cool before adding the glaze to avoid it melting and running off.
• Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, so avoid bottled lemon juice if possible.
• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so check the loaf with a toothpick at the 50-minute mark. If it comes out clean, the loaf is ready.

How to Serve

Serve this Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf sliced with a cup of tea, coffee, or a cold glass of lemonade. It makes a perfect breakfast treat, dessert, or afternoon snack. For an extra indulgent option, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Lemon Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let the loaf come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze the Lemon Loaf for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To thaw, leave it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To reheat a slice, simply microwave it for about 15-20 seconds or place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with other oils like canola or sunflower oil. Avoid using olive oil, as it has a strong flavor that may overpower the lemon.

2. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch.

3. Can I make this recipe in a round cake pan?

Yes, you can use an 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may bake faster or slower depending on the shape.

4. Can I add blueberries to the loaf?

Yes, fresh blueberries would be a great addition. Just fold them gently into the batter to avoid crushing them.

5. Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

Yes, this loaf can be baked ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.

6. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If the glaze is too runny, simply add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.

7. Can I use a different glaze for the loaf?

Yes, you can experiment with a cream cheese glaze or even a simple sugar glaze instead of the lemon glaze for a different flavor.

8. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

9. How do I know when the loaf is done?

The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. The top should also be golden brown.

10. Can I make this recipe without lemon extract?

Yes, you can skip the lemon extract, but the loaf may have a slightly less intense lemon flavor. The zest and fresh juice will still provide plenty of lemony goodness.

Conclusion

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is a wonderfully refreshing and easy-to-make dessert that captures the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. With its tender, moist crumb and zesty lemon glaze, it’s just as satisfying as the store-bought version but without the need for a trip to the coffee shop. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it with a cup of coffee or share it with friends, this loaf will undoubtedly become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.

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