If you love the Lemon Loaf from Starbucks, you’re in for a treat! This Starbucks Lemon Loaf Copycat Recipe recreates the moist, tangy, and sweet flavors of the original, right in your own kitchen. Made with fresh lemon juice, zest, and a rich buttery texture, this homemade lemon bread recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack with coffee or tea.
Whether you’re using a bread maker for lemon loaf, a stand mixer, or mixing by hand, this easy copycat Starbucks lemon bread will become a go-to recipe in your baking collection. Let’s get started!
Ingredients Overview
For the Lemon Loaf:
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups)
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Eggs (3 large)
- Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted)
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (⅓ cup)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (¼ cup)
- Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Lemon Extract (½ teaspoon, optional for extra lemon flavor)
- Milk (¼ cup)
For the Lemon Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (2-3 tablespoons)
- Milk or Heavy Cream (1 tablespoon, for creamier consistency)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this Starbucks Lemon Bread Recipe, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Zester or microplane
- Measuring cups and spoons
(Optional: If using a bread machine, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for quick bread settings.)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using).
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- Add the milk and mix until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Bake the Lemon Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk (or heavy cream) until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
Tips for the Best Lemon Loaf
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy texture.
- For Extra Moisture: Use sour cream or Greek yogurt, which helps keep the loaf soft.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: This makes it easier to remove the loaf without breaking.
- Overbaking: Check for doneness at 50 minutes to avoid drying out the loaf.
- Glazing While Hot: Let the loaf cool completely before adding glaze to prevent it from melting off.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Classic Slices: Serve thick slices with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Starbucks Lemon Poppyseed Loaf Variation: Add 1 tablespoon poppyseeds for a twist.
- Brunch Spread: Pair with fresh berries, honey, and a light yogurt parfait.
Recipe Variations and Customizations
- Bread Maker Lemon Loaf: Follow the quick bread cycle instructions on your bread machine.
- Cinnamon Lemon Loaf: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for a warm twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of regular milk.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Microwave slices for 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh taste.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Treat
- Iced Coffee or Tea: A refreshing balance to the tangy sweetness.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A warm slice with ice cream makes for a delightful dessert.
- Whipped Cream & Berries: Top with whipped cream and fresh raspberries for an elegant touch.
FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe without a loaf pan?
Yes! Use a muffin tin to make lemon loaf muffins (adjust baking time to 18-22 minutes).
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.
How do I make this loaf fluffier?
Use room temperature eggs and butter and don’t overmix the batter.
Enjoy Your Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf!
This Copycat Starbucks Lemon Bread Recipe is a must-try for lemon lovers! Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply want a coffeehouse-style treat at home, this Starbucks Lemon Loaf Bread Machine recipe is easy, flavorful, and incredibly moist.
If you loved this recipe, share it with friends and subscribe for more delicious homemade bread recipes!
Starbucks Lemon Loaf: Moist and Irresistible
If you love the Lemon Loaf from Starbucks, you’re in for a treat! This Starbucks Lemon Loaf Copycat Recipe recreates the moist, tangy, and sweet flavors of the original, right in your own kitchen
- To prepare this Starbucks Lemon Bread Recipe, you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (for easy removal)
- Zester or microplane
- Measuring cups and spoons
- For the Lemon Loaf:
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups)
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup)
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Eggs (3 large)
- Butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted)
- Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (⅓ cup)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (¼ cup)
- Lemon Zest (1 tablespoon)
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Lemon Extract (½ teaspoon, optional for extra lemon flavor)
- Milk (¼ cup)
- For the Lemon Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup)
- Fresh Lemon Juice (2-3 tablespoons)
- Milk or Heavy Cream (1 tablespoon, for creamier consistency)
- Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, melted butter, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and lemon extract (if using).
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- Add the milk and mix until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Step 4: Bake the Lemon Loaf
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 5: Make the Lemon Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk (or heavy cream) until smooth.
- Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let it set before slicing.
Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest make a huge difference in flavor.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light, fluffy texture.
For Extra Moisture: Use sour cream or Greek yogurt, which helps keep the loaf soft.