How to Make Starbucks Lemon Loaf: A Step-by-Step Guide

Craving the zesty, sweet flavor of Starbucks Lemon Loaf? You can now recreate this delightful treat in the comfort of your own kitchen. Follow this detailed guide to make a moist, tangy, and delicious lemon loaf that rivals the famous Starbucks version.

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

how to make starbucks lemon loaf

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, for extra tanginess)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • Combine Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

  • Combine Mixtures:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the loaf dense.

5. Bake the Lemon Loaf

  • Transfer and Bake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool:
    • Allow the lemon loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to make starbucks lemon loaf

6. Prepare the Lemon Glaze

  • Mix Glaze Ingredients:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice if needed. For extra tang, add lemon zest to the glaze.

7. Glaze the Lemon Loaf

  • Apply Glaze:
    • Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  • Set Glaze:
    • Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Variations

  • Storage:
    • Store the lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing:
    • To freeze, wrap the cooled, unglazed loaf in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze before serving.
  • Extra Moisture:
    • For an even moister loaf, you can add a tablespoon of lemon pudding mix to the batter.
  • Flavor Twist:
    • Add poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf variation.

Conclusion

Making a Starbucks Lemon Loaf at home is easier than you might think. With this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy a slice of this moist, tangy, and sweet treat anytime you want. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this lemon loaf is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the bright flavors and wonderful texture of this homemade version of a Starbucks favorite!