Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf – Better Than the Original!

Bring the bright, tangy-sweet flavor of Starbucks’ famous Lemon Loaf right to your kitchen with this easy, foolproof recipe. Moist, tender, and topped with a luscious lemon glaze, this loaf is perfect for brunch, afternoon tea, or anytime you crave a citrusy treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
🍋 Just like Starbucks – But fresher, softer, and more flavorful!
💛 Ultra-moist crumb – Thanks to sour cream and oil.
✨ Easy to make – No mixer needed, just one bowl!
🌞 Zesty & refreshing – Packed with real lemon juice and zest.
Ingredients
(Makes 1 standard loaf)
For the Lemon Loaf:
- 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 tbsp lemon zest (~2 lemons)
- ¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp lemon extract (optional, but recommended)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp milk (optional, for thinning)
(Optional: Extra lemon zest for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep & Mix Dry Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Make the Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until smooth.
- Add sour cream, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon extract. Mix well.
- Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Bake
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 mins, then transfer to a wire rack.
4. Glaze & Serve
- Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk (if needed) until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let set for 10 mins.
- Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Loaf
🔹 Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
🔹 Don’t overbake – The loaf should be golden and springy.
🔹 For extra lemon punch, brush warm loaf with 1 tbsp lemon syrup (1 tbsp lemon juice + 1 tbsp sugar, heated).
🔹 Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze unglazed for up to 1 month.
Serving Suggestions
☕ Pair with: Iced tea, coffee, or a mimosa for brunch!
🍓 Elevate it: Serve with fresh berries or whipped cream.
FAQ (For SEO & Reader Help)
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Fresh is best for flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
Q: Why is my loaf dense?
A: Overmixing or expired baking powder/soda can cause this.
Q: Can I make muffins instead?
A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 mins.
This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is sunshine in every bite—bright, moist, and irresistibly delicious. Will you bake it this weekend? 🌟
Tag #YourSiteName if you try it!