Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf – Moist & Zesty Homemade Recipe

If you love the Starbucks Lemon Loaf, this homemade version will be your new favorite treat! It’s moist, buttery, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor, all topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze. This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is easy to make at home with simple ingredients, and it’s even better than the original! Perfect for a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert, this loaf is a must-try for lemon lovers.

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Ingredients for Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

For the Lemon Loaf:

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

For the Lemon Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare the Pan

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

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir to combine.
3. Mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth.

4. Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
2. Do not overmix—this helps keep the loaf light and fluffy.

5. Bake the Lemon Loaf

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Once the loaf is fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

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Expert Tips for the Perfect Lemon Loaf

• Use fresh lemon juice and zest – It gives the best citrus flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter – This keeps the loaf light and tender.
• Let the loaf cool completely before glazing – This prevents the glaze from melting too quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking – Check for doneness at 50 minutes to avoid a dry loaf.
• Skipping the sour cream or yogurt – This ingredient keeps the loaf moist.
• Not using enough lemon zest – The zest adds essential lemon flavor.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with fresh berries for a refreshing touch.
• Pair with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a perfect snack.
• Dust with extra powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.

How to Store & Make Ahead

Storage:

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

Freezing:

• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it dairy-free – Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free yogurt.
• Add poppy seeds for a lemon poppy seed loaf variation.
• Use orange zest instead of lemon for a citrus twist.

What to Serve with Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Iced coffee or tea for a refreshing drink pairing.
• Honey butter or fruit jam for an extra spread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.

Why is my lemon loaf dense?

Overmixing the batter or not using enough baking soda can make it too dense.

Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.

Conclusion

This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is the perfect homemade treat—moist, tangy, and sweet with a rich lemon glaze. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 320 kcal per slice (based on 10 slices).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Serves: 10

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