Starbucks Lemon Loaf

Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe

Craving that irresistible, zesty Starbucks Lemon Loaf but want to enjoy it from the comfort of your home? This copycat recipe captures the moist, lemony flavor and the rich, sweet frosting that makes the Starbucks version so iconic. The balance of tart lemon and sweet icing creates a perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with coffee. Plus, it’s easier than you might think to whip up this bakery-worthy loaf!

Ingredients

Loaf

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3.4 oz instant lemon pudding mix
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon extract
• 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• Zest of 1 lemon

Frosting

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon extract

Directions

Loaf

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 5 x 9″ loaf pan with parchment paper and spray with non-stick baking spray. Set aside.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, using a stand or hand mixer, beat together the eggs, sugar, and butter until creamy. Add the vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon juice, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well incorporated. Fold in the lemon zest.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes, then carefully remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

1. In a bowl, whisk together the softened butter, lemon juice, and lemon extract.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
3. Once the loaf is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate the loaf for 10-15 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.

Tips for the Best Lemon Loaf

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and yogurt are at room temperature to create a smoother batter and even texture.
• Fresh Lemon Zest: For the most intense lemon flavor, don’t skip the lemon zest in the batter!
• Storage: Store the lemon loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 390 kcal per slice
• Servings: 10 slices

This Starbucks Lemon Loaf Copycat is the perfect way to bring the café experience home! The soft, tender loaf paired with the tangy lemon frosting is pure sunshine in every bite. Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a truly delightful treat.

Print