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Starbucks Lemon Loaf Copycat: How to Make the Perfect Citrus Cake at Home

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This moist and tangy Lemon Loaf is a delightful treat, bursting with fresh lemon flavor and topped with a sweet glaze. Perfect for pairing with tea or coffee, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
  • ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, and optionally line the bottom with parchment paper.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
  11. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf and allow it to set for 10-15 minutes.
  12. Slice the loaf into even pieces, about 1-inch thick.
  13. Serve on a platter or individual plates, and enjoy with tea or coffee.
  14. Consider adding poppy seeds or blueberries for extra flavor.
  15. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For freezing, slice first and wrap tightly.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use fresh lemons for zest and juice.
  • Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure a light and fluffy loaf.
  • Optional add-ins can enhance the flavor and texture of the loaf.

Find it online: https://psrecipeswillow.com/2025/05/starbucks-lemon-loaf-copycat/