If you’ve ever walked into a Starbucks and been tempted by the golden, glossy slices of their famous Lemon Loaf (also called Lemon Bread), you know just how irresistible it is. Moist, tender, sweet, and zesty, this bakery-style treat pairs perfectly with coffee or tea and has become a favorite for many. But the good news? You don’t need to run to the café to enjoy it—you can make a copycat Starbucks Lemon Bread right at home.
This recipe captures all the qualities of the original: the tangy lemon flavor, the rich yet soft crumb, and the sweet, lemony glaze on top. Best of all, it’s easy to whip up with pantry staples and delivers bakery-worthy results from your own oven.
What Makes Starbucks Lemon Bread Special?
Starbucks Lemon Bread isn’t just another quick loaf—it’s a delightful balance of bright citrus and sweet indulgence. Here’s why it’s so popular:
- Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to oil (instead of just butter) and sour cream or yogurt, the loaf stays soft and fluffy for days.
- Citrus Punch: Fresh lemon juice and zest create that bold, refreshing flavor in every bite.
- Signature Glaze: A tangy-sweet icing drizzled over the top adds shine, sweetness, and extra lemon zing.
- Perfect Pairing: Its sweet citrus flavor complements coffee, tea, or even a glass of iced lemonade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Lemon Bread:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ⅓ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest (about 2 lemons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 45–55 minutes
- Cooling and Glazing: 30 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 standard 9×5-inch loaf (8–10 slices)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until light and creamy. Add vegetable oil, melted butter, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Bring It All Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the loaf dense.
5. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
6. Cool
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper and cool completely on a wire rack.
7. Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf, letting it drip down the sides. Let the glaze set before slicing.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 200mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Presentation and Serving Ideas
- Simple and Classic: Slice and serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Brunch Favorite: Arrange on a platter with fresh berries and other baked goods like scones or muffins.
- Dessert-Style: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Gift-Worthy: Wrap cooled slices in parchment and tie with twine for a thoughtful homemade treat.
Variations and Customizations
- Orange Twist: Replace lemon juice and zest with orange for a sunny, citrusy loaf.
- Double Lemon: Add ½ teaspoon of lemon extract to boost the citrus flavor even further.
- Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and reduce the sugar slightly.
- Poppy Seed Lemon Bread: Fold in 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for extra texture and a bakery-style finish.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Lemons: Bottled juice won’t give the same vibrant flavor. Zest the lemons before juicing for maximum citrus punch.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the loaf in the last 10 minutes. Overbaking dries it out.
- Cool Before Glazing: If the loaf is too warm, the glaze will melt right off.
- Make Ahead: The loaf tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have fully settled.
Why Make This Copycat Recipe at Home?
Not only does this copycat Starbucks Lemon Bread save you money, but it also gives you full control over the ingredients and flavor. You can make it a touch sweeter or tangier, add a personal twist, or bake multiple loaves to share with friends and family. And unlike store-bought versions, you’ll enjoy the freshness of real lemons in every bite.
Whether you’re chasing nostalgia from your favorite café or simply love a bright, citrusy dessert, this Copycat Starbucks Lemon Bread is a must-try recipe. Moist, tangy, and glazed to perfection, it’s ideal for breakfasts, snacks, brunches, or sweet endings to any meal.
Once you bake this at home, don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen—it’s that good.