If you’re a fan of that moist, citrusy lemon loaf from Starbucks, you’re going to fall in love with this homemade Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf. This rich, buttery cake bursts with vibrant lemon flavor and is topped with a thick, sweet glaze that hardens to perfection. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or serving it as a sweet treat after dinner, this lemon loaf hits all the right notes. The best part? You don’t have to leave your house (or spend extra at the coffee shop) to enjoy this bakery-style delight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
🍋 For the Lemon Loaf
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract (optional for extra zing)
🍋 For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
How to Make Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add sour cream, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir just until the batter is smooth and combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and cream until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and let it set for 15 minutes.
Tips for the Best Lemon Loaf
🍋 Use fresh lemons for both zest and juice—the flavor is unbeatable.
🍰 Don’t overmix the batter; a gentle stir ensures a soft, tender crumb.
🧈 Sour cream adds richness and keeps the loaf super moist.
⏲️ Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing for a picture-perfect drizzle.
🧁 For extra flavor, add a dash of lemon extract to the glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
❤️ Bakery-quality at home – This lemon loaf rivals the original in taste and texture.
🍋 Bright citrus flavor – A perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
🧁 Moist and buttery – Thanks to the sour cream and oil combination.
🎉 Great for any occasion – Breakfast, brunch, dessert, or tea-time.
💸 Budget-friendly – No need to splurge at Starbucks!
The Science Behind Its Unique Texture
What gives this loaf its perfect texture? It’s a combination of several ingredients working in harmony. Eggs provide structure and stability while keeping the cake soft. Oil, instead of butter, contributes to the moistness without making it too dense. Sour cream adds a creamy richness that enhances tenderness. Finally, the acidity from the lemon juice reacts with baking soda to give the loaf a light lift and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
The Magic of Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
There’s a certain joy in replicating your favorite treats from coffee shops at home—and this lemon loaf delivers that same indulgent, cozy feeling. From the vibrant lemon aroma while it bakes to the glossy glaze that sparkles on top, every part of this loaf feels special. One bite in, and you’ll be transported to your favorite café, without waiting in line. It’s nostalgic, zesty, and delightfully sweet—the kind of dessert that brings people together and sparks smiles.
Equipment You’ll Need
🔪 Mixing bowls
🌀 Hand mixer or stand mixer
📏 Measuring cups and spoons
🧁 Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
🧈 Rubber spatula
🧻 Parchment paper
🍰 Wire cooling rack
FAQs About Lemon Loaf
Can I freeze this lemon loaf?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. It’s a great substitute and keeps the loaf moist.
How long does this loaf stay fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use two loaf pans or a 9×13 baking dish. Adjust baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf is more than just a dessert—it’s a homemade hug in every slice. With its rich citrusy flavor, soft texture, and sweet lemon glaze, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re a Starbucks regular or just love a good lemon dessert, this recipe brings all the coffee shop charm into your home—deliciously and effortlessly. 🍋🍰💛
Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
Moist, buttery, and bursting with bright lemon flavor, this Starbucks-style lemon loaf is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert. It’s easy to make at home and tastes just like the real deal—maybe even better!
For the Lemon Loaf:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract (optional for stronger lemon flavor)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 –3 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional for extra zing)
✔ Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
✔ Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
✔ Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add sour cream, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon extract. Mix until well combined.
✔ Make the Batter
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.
✔ Bake the Loaf
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
✔ Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and zest until smooth and pourable.
✔ Glaze & Serve
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled loaf. Let set for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
-
✅ For an extra lemony punch, brush warm loaf with lemon syrup before glazing.
-
✅ Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
-
✅ Pairs perfectly with tea or a Starbucks-style coffee drink at home!
