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If you've ever savored a slice of the famed Starbucks Lemon Loaf, you know just how delightful it can be. This zesty treat combines the tangy brightness of lemons with a moist cake texture, making it an irresistible choice for coffee breaks, afternoon snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re a fan of the original or just in search of a refreshing, citrusy treat, this homemade version of Starbucks Lemon Loaf is sure to impress your taste buds and elevate your baking game.

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Indulge in the refreshing taste of homemade Lemon Loaf with this Starbucks copycat recipe! Perfectly tangy and delightfully moist, this zesty cake is ideal for coffee breaks or sweet cravings. With easy-to-follow steps and common ingredients, you can recreate this café classic right in your kitchen. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat that’s sure to brighten your day!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs

¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)

Zest of 1 lemon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream

1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)

2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

    Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a light texture.

        Add Eggs and Lemon: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

          Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt (or sour cream) and starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

            Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during baking.

                Cool: Once done, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.

                    Glaze the Loaf: Once the lemon loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

                      Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve your delicious homemade lemon loaf with a cup of tea or coffee!

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour 10 minutes | 8 servings