Name: Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 large eggs; ⅓ cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Hey y'all! Craving that famous Starbucks Lemon Loaf but want to enjoy it fresh from your own kitchen? This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf recipe delivers all the bright, tangy flavor and moist, tender crumb you love—without the coffee shop price tag! It's a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for brunch, birthdays, or simply sweetening your day. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Ultra-moist texture with a bold, tangy lemon flavor in every bite.
Simple pantry ingredients make it a breeze to whip up anytime.
The sweet, zesty lemon glaze takes it over the top for a bakery-worthy finish.
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a grab-and-go treat.
Satisfies your Starbucks cravings—made fresh at home!

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Ingredients

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (240g) plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
Zest of 2 large lemons
¼ cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze:

1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

How to Make Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Ingredients

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the eggs and sugar until light and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes). Mix in the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gently fold until just combined—don't overmix to keep your loaf tender.

Step 5: Bake the Lemon Loaf

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make a thick, pourable glaze. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let set before slicing.

Notes for Perfect Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

For extra lemon flavor, add a few drops of pure lemon extract to the batter.
Use room temperature eggs for a fluffier, more even crumb (why it matters).
For best results, always measure your flour using the spoon and level method (learn how).

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Variations

Blueberry Lemon Loaf: Gently fold 1 cup fresh blueberries into the batter before baking.
Gluten-Free Lemon Loaf: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour.
Lemon-Poppy Seed Loaf: Stir in 2 tablespoons poppy seeds for a classic twist.

Required Equipment for Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

9x5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or whisk
Zester or microplane
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf Storage Instructions

Wrap the cooled lemon loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze (sliced or whole) for up to 2 months—just thaw before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Enjoy a thick slice with your morning coffee or tea.
Serve alongside fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant dessert.
Pair with an iced matcha latte for a Starbucks-style treat at home (see Starbucks' version).

Pro Tips for the Best Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

Don’t overmix the batter—stir just until everything is combined for a tender, moist crumb.
Fresh lemon juice and zest are key for the brightest flavor—skip bottled juice if you can (learn why).
For a thicker, bakery-style glaze, use less lemon juice and let it set completely before slicing.

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf FAQ

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?: Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch—just note the flavor may be less vibrant.
Can I double the recipe?: Absolutely! Use two loaf pans and bake side-by-side, checking for doneness after 50 minutes.
Is this lemon loaf freezer-friendly?: Yes, the Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf freezes beautifully! Wrap well and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (includes baking and cooling)

Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf