Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe: Easy & Moist

If you’re a fan of the moist, tangy, and utterly delicious Starbucks Lemon Loaf, you’ll love this homemade version. Skip the drive-thru and whip up your own Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf right in your kitchen. With its zesty lemon flavor and soft, tender crumb, this recipe brings the café experience to your home—without the long lines!

Why This Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf Is a Must-Try

This Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf recipe is a game-changer for those who crave the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus. The loaf is incredibly moist thanks to the combination of sour cream, butter, and oil, making each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re enjoying it as a morning snack or an afternoon treat, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your lemon-loving cravings. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.

Ingredients for Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf

• All-purpose flour: Provides the base for the loaf, giving it structure and tenderness.
• Baking powder: Helps the loaf rise, ensuring a light and airy texture.
• Baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder to give the loaf the perfect lift.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the loaf.
• Vegetable oil: Helps keep the loaf soft and moist.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf, making it the perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the loaf’s texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the lemon.
• Lemon extract: Boosts the lemon flavor, creating a more intense citrus taste.
• Lemon zest and lemon juice: These fresh ingredients give the loaf its signature tangy citrus flavor.
• Sour cream: Provides moisture and a slight tanginess, ensuring the loaf is perfectly soft.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some substitutions:

• Gluten-free all-purpose flour: For a gluten-free version of the loaf.
• Greek yogurt or buttermilk: Use in place of sour cream for a slight variation in flavor and texture.
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar: These alternatives offer a different sweetness profile and slight color variation.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer on medium speed to combine the granulated sugar and eggs for 2 minutes until well mixed.
4. Add the melted butter and vegetable oil to the sugar and egg mixture, then mix until fully incorporated.
5. Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
6. Add the sour cream and stir until the mixture is smooth.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding it in with a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix to keep the loaf light and fluffy.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean and the top feels firm to the touch.
10. Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and heavy cream or milk until smooth. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or cream.
2. Once the loaf has cooled, pour the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Lemon Loaf

• Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.
• Check for doneness: If a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
• Store leftovers: Keep any leftover lemon loaf at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer storage.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Your Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf

This Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with fresh toppings and sides can elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas:

• Whipped cream: Top a slice of lemon loaf with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Fresh berries: Serve with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of natural sweetness and color.
• Lemon curd: Spread or drizzle lemon curd over the loaf for an extra citrus punch.
• Vanilla ice cream: A warm slice of lemon loaf paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a comforting dessert.
• Hot tea or coffee: Enjoy your lemon loaf with a hot beverage for the ultimate cozy snack.

Storing & Freezing Your Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf

This lemon loaf freezes beautifully! If you have leftovers or want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze it in several ways:

• Sliced loaf: Freeze slices on a baking sheet for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 6 months.
• Uncut loaf: Wrap the entire loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Copycat Starbucks Lemon Loaf recipe brings the beloved café treat straight to your kitchen. With its soft, moist texture and zesty lemon flavor, it’s the perfect dessert or snack to enjoy with friends and family. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or indulging with your morning coffee, this loaf is sure to impress. The best part? It’s simple to make, and you can customize it to suit your preferences. Bake a batch today, and let the tangy sweetness of lemon fill your home with irresistible aromas!

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Lemon Loaf Cake with Lemon Glaze
• Lemon Pound Cake 

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