Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe
Introduction
This Starbucks Lemon Loaf is a delightfully moist and tangy treat that brightens any afternoon with its fresh lemon flavor. Easy to make and wonderfully comforting, it’s perfect for a sweet snack or a simple dessert.

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 it aside.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, add the eggs, sugar, and sour cream. Use a hand mixer to beat 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, then beat to combine.
- Step 5: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined, leaving some lumps to avoid overmixing.
- Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Step 7: Bake for 43 to 45 minutes, or until the top is browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 8: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before removing and adding the glaze.
- Step 9: In a medium bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and lemon juice together until smooth.
- Step 10: Evenly drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf.
- Step 11: Slice and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra lemony punch, add some finely chopped lemon zest to the glaze.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to add protein and a slightly tangier flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon extract for a more natural lemon flavor.
- To make mini loaves, divide the batter into smaller pans and adjust baking time accordingly.
Storage
Store the lemon loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use all oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use any neutral oil like canola or sunflower oil. Avoid strongly flavored oils as they may alter the taste of the loaf.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. Baking times may vary slightly.
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Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 8 slices) 1x
Description
This Starbucks Lemon Loaf recipe replicates the moist, flavorful lemon cake served at Starbucks. It features a tender crumb enriched with lemon zest and lemon extract, topped with a tangy lemon glaze that perfectly complements the sweetness of the loaf.
Ingredients
For the Lemon Loaf
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large lemon, zested
- 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 desired consistency is reached)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 large eggs, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup sour cream. Using a hand mixer, beat the mixture until smooth and well blended.
- Add Oil: With the mixer running on low speed, slowly pour in ½ cup vegetable oil while continuing to mix, ensuring the batter emulsifies well.
- Incorporate Flavors: Add the zest of one large lemon, 2 tablespoons lemon extract, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract into the batter. Beat again to combine all flavors evenly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; some lumps remaining in the batter are normal.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 43 to 45 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Loaf: Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan to firm up and prevent breaking when glazed.
- Prepare Lemon Icing: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon milk until smooth and the glaze reaches a pourable consistency. Add more powdered sugar if you want it thicker.
- Glaze and Serve: Once the loaf has completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze evenly over the top. Slice and serve your deliciously moist Starbucks-style Lemon Loaf.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender and light; some lumps are acceptable.
- Lemon zest and lemon extract provide the signature bright lemon flavor; do not substitute with only lemon juice.
- Let the loaf cool completely before glazing to prevent the icing from melting.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best quality in the icing.
- Store the loaf covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Starbucks Lemon Loaf, Lemon Cake, Lemon Bread, Moist Lemon Loaf, Lemon Glaze Cake

