Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Moist, buttery, and bursting with bright lemon flavor, this Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf tastes just like the café favorite—maybe even better! With a tender crumb, a rich lemon glaze, and an irresistible citrusy aroma, this easy homemade loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bright & Zesty – Packed with real lemon flavor in every bite.
Soft & Moist – Buttery and tender with the perfect crumb.
Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples you already have.
Better Than Store-Bought – Fresh, homemade, and no preservatives.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Breakfast, snack, dessert, or tea time!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Lemon Loaf:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp lemon zest (about 2 large lemons)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp lemon extract (optional but highly recommended)

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tbsp poppy seeds for texture
• Extra lemon zest sprinkled on top for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Microplane or fine grater for zesting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until thick and pale, about 1–2 minutes.
Add sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and lemon extract if using.
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients using a spatula.
Mix until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the loaf tender.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift it out and cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk the powdered sugar and lemon juice together until smooth.
Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or more lemon juice to thin.

Step 7: Glaze and Serve
Once the loaf is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success
Use Fresh Lemons – Fresh juice and zest make all the difference in flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until the flour disappears to keep the loaf light and tender.
Cool Before Glazing – Prevents the glaze from melting into the loaf.
Use Lemon Extract – Optional, but adds that signature punch of lemon flavor.
Line the Pan – Makes removing the loaf so much easier!

Serving Suggestions
With a Cup of Tea – The perfect cozy pairing.
With Fresh Berries – Brightens up the plate beautifully.
For Brunch – Add to a brunch table with fruit and eggs.
As a Sweet Snack – Perfect for afternoon coffee breaks.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness.

Freezing:
Freeze the loaf (unglazed or glazed) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Reheating:
Microwave: Warm individual slices for 10–15 seconds if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this loaf dairy-free?
   Yes, use a dairy-free yogurt and plant-based milk.
2. Can I use butter instead of oil?
   Yes, melted butter can be substituted, but oil keeps it extra moist.
3. Can I skip the lemon glaze?
   You can, but the glaze adds extra lemony sweetness!
4. How do I get a stronger lemon flavor?
   Use both lemon zest and lemon extract for a vibrant citrus punch.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes! Bake in two loaf pans or a 9×13-inch pan (adjust baking time accordingly).

Final Thoughts
This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is tender, moist, and bursting with bright, fresh lemon flavor. With its buttery crumb and tangy glaze, it’s everything you love about the famous bakery treat—only fresher and even more delicious when homemade. Simple, satisfying, and impossible to resist!

Bake up a loaf today and brighten your day with a slice of sunshine! Don’t forget to share your lemon loaf creations online!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Cuisine: American / Bakery-Style

Nutritional Information (Per Slice – makes 10 slices):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 22g | Sodium: 170mg

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