Description

This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf recipe yields a moist, tangy lemon-flavored loaf cake that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Made with fresh lemon zest and juice, buttermilk for tenderness, and topped with a sweet lemon glaze, this homemade treat closely mimics the beloved café classic.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Lemon Loaf

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 lemon, zested and juiced
½ cup buttermilk (or substitute with yogurt)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Optional Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or use non-stick spray to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate them and maintain a smooth batter.
Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to infuse the batter with bright citrus flavor.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet batter, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently just until combined; overmixing can make the loaf dense.
Pour Batter Into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula for an even bake.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
Prepare Glaze: While the loaf is baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth to create the optional lemon glaze.
Glaze Loaf: After baking, allow the loaf to cool slightly but still warm, then drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Let it set before slicing and serving.

Notes

Substitute buttermilk with yogurt or milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar if needed.
For extra lemon flavor, add a bit more zest or use a mixture of lemon and lime zest.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweet-tart finish to the loaf.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Starbucks copycat, lemon loaf, lemon cake, citrus cake, homemade lemon loaf, glazed lemon bread, easy lemon dessert