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Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf – Easy Sweet Recipes You’ll Love

You know that moment when you just need a slice of sunshine? That’s what this Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf feels like. It’s sweet, bright, and it kind of tricks you into thinking you’ve got your life together. We’ve all eyed that glistening loaf through the coffee shop glass, right? Well, now you can make your own at home—pajamas and all. No judgment here. This recipe nails the perfect mix of tender cake and punchy lemon flavor. You don’t have to be a professional baker either (thank goodness, because last time I tried anything fancy, it looked like a toddler made it). Just simple ingredients, one bowl, and a little lemony magic. Oh, and let’s not forget the thick, tangy glaze. It’s basically the crown jewel of the loaf. Without it, it’s like a king without a throne. Let’s get messy and make something incredible together. Bring the coffee shop vibes straight to your kitchen—with fewer awkward small talks in line!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Cakes
Cuisine: American
Keywords: easy baking recipes, easy cake recipes, easy dessert recipes, easy lemon recipes, easy recipes, easy sweet recipes, quick and easy sweet recipes
Servings: 10 slices
Author: Elena

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another larger bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add butter, vanilla, lemon extract, lemon juice, vegetable oil, and lemon zest.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until combined.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  7. To make the glaze, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf.
  8. Slice, eat, and pretend you're sipping a $6 coffee while people-watching.

Notes

Store leftovers (if you have any) wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days. The loaf actually tastes even better the next day when the lemon flavor soaks in.