Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe
Introduction
This Starbucks Lemon Loaf is a zesty, moist treat perfect for brightening up your day. With a tender crumb and tangy lemon glaze, it’s simple to make and irresistible to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar (add more until desired consistency is reached)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, and sour cream. Beat with a hand mixer until smooth.
- Step 3: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the vegetable oil while continuing to beat.
- Step 4: Add the lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
- Step 5: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until just combined; some lumps are okay. Avoid overmixing.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 43 to 45 minutes, until the top is browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the loaf cool completely in the pan before removing and glazing.
- Step 8: For the lemon icing, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Step 9: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled loaf.
- Step 10: Slice and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh lemon zest for the best bright, natural flavor.
- If you don’t have lemon extract, substitute with an additional teaspoon of lemon zest and a drop of vanilla extract.
- For a moister loaf, try adding a tablespoon of Greek yogurt in place of some sour cream.
- Drizzle the glaze while the loaf is still slightly warm for a thinner, more absorbed topping.
Storage
Store the lemon loaf tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and re-glaze if needed. Reheat slices gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds if desired.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain yogurt is a suitable substitute for sour cream and will keep the loaf moist. Greek yogurt works best for a thicker texture.
How can I make the lemon glaze thicker or thinner?
Add more powdered sugar to thicken the glaze or a little extra milk to thin it out until you reach your preferred consistency.
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Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Starbucks Lemon Loaf recipe is a delightful citrus-flavored cake that combines the tanginess of lemon with a moist, tender crumb. It’s topped with a sweet, lemony glaze that enhances its refreshing flavor, making it perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
Lemon Loaf
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Lemon Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar (add more as needed for desired consistency)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Prepare loaf pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside to ensure the loaf doesn’t stick.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, and sour cream. Use a hand mixer to beat until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Add oil: With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour in the vegetable oil, continuing to beat gently to incorporate.
- Add flavorings: Mix in the lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix; some lumps are fine to keep the loaf tender.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Place in the oven and bake for 43 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool loaf: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before removing it to ensure it holds its shape.
- Make lemon glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth. Add more powdered sugar to achieve your desired glaze consistency.
- Glaze and serve: Evenly drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled loaf. Slice and serve to enjoy this refreshing treat.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense loaf; slight lumps are normal.
- Make sure the loaf is completely cooled before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting and becoming runny.
- Adjust the lemon glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar or milk as needed.
- You can substitute lemon extract with fresh lemon juice but reduce the amount slightly to avoid excess liquid.
- Store leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Starbucks Lemon Loaf, lemon cake, lemon loaf, citrus cake, baked dessert, easy lemon bread

