This copycat Starbucks lemon loaf tastes just like the real thing! The moist, buttery cake bursts with fresh lemon flavor. Topped with a sweet glaze, each slice brings the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday treat, this homemade version beats waiting in line!
Making this recipe is quick and simple by following the step-by-step photos and directions below. We also include pro tips and tricks to guarantee success every time. Plus, don’t miss the section with frequently asked questions and helpful answers!
What you’ll need to make this lemon loaf recipe:
For the Lemon Loaf
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- Zest of 1 large lemon
- 2 tablespoons lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Lemon Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar, add more until you reach desired consistency
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Substitutions and Additions
Icing: Skip the icing if you prefer a less sweet lemon loaf. Store-bought icing works too if you’re short on time.
Sour Cream: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt using a 1:1 ratio. This keeps the loaf moist and adds a slight tang.
How to Make Starbucks Lemon Loaf
Follow along with our step-by-step pictures and instructions to make this delicious lemon loaf. Check out the tips and tricks below to guarantee perfect results. Let’s get started and bake something amazing!
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray, set aside.
SECOND STEP: In a large bowl add the eggs, sugar, and sour cream. Use an electric mixer to beat together until smooth.
THIRD STEP: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the vegetable oil while continuing to beat together.
FOURTH STEP: Add the lemon zest, lemon extract, and vanilla extract, then beat to combine.
FIFTH STEP: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined.
SIXTH STEP: Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
SEVENTH STEP: Bake for 43 to 45 minutes, or until the top is browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
EIGHTH STEP: Once the loaf is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the loaf pan before removing and adding the glaze.
NINTH STEP: To make the icing, in a medium bowl add the powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice. Whisk together until it is smooth and well combined.
TENTH STEP: Evenly drizzle glaze over top of the loaf before slicing and serving.
