Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Recipe
This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf recipe recreates the beloved tangy and moist lemon loaf cake, perfect for an afternoon snack or a sweet breakfast treat. Featuring a tender crumb infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, topped with a zesty lemon glaze, this loaf is sure to brighten your day with every bite.
- Author: Amaya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for garnish)
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), vegetable oil, and melted unsalted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined for a moist texture.
- Add Lemon and Vanilla: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract into the wet mixture to infuse bright, citrusy flavors throughout the batter.
- Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the loaf tough.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Allow the baked loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Make the Lemon Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed for a pourable glaze.
- Glaze and Garnish: Once the loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Optionally, garnish with additional lemon zest for an extra citrusy aroma and visual appeal.
- Serve: Slice the lemon loaf and enjoy its moist, sweet, and tangy flavors as a delightful treat or dessert.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream without compromising the taste and texture.
- Ensure the loaf is completely cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and sliding off.
- Lemon extract enhances the lemon flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender and moist.
Keywords: Starbucks Lemon Loaf, Lemon Loaf Cake, Copycat Starbucks Recipe, Citrus Dessert, Lemon Cake, Easy Baking Recipe