Copy Cat Starbucks Lemon Loaf
Prepare a sweet loaf with hints of citrus flavor using this Lemon Loaf recipe. It’s a simple baked treat with a flavorful glaze drizzled on top that completes it.
What Is Lemon Loaf?
Lemon Loaf is similar to a lemon cake, but it’s made in a loaf pan. It has a lemon taste that is not too overpowering with each bite. You can slice it into individual serving pieces and wrap them to keep them fresh. It’s the perfect light and flavorful snack to have when you’re in the mood for something sweet. If you like lemons and lemonade, you’ll love this Lemon Loaf.
What You’ll Need to Make the Lemon Loaf
When preparing the Lemon Loaf, you’re going to need specific ingredients, including the following items:
- All-Purpose Flour. You’ll start with the flour to create the batter for the Lemon Loaf.
- Baking Powder. The baking powder leaves the loaf with the perfect texture and consistency.
- Granulated Sugar. Give your loaf a sweeter taste by adding granulated sugar to it.
- Lemon Extract. Add lemon extract for that true citrus taste
- Lemon Zest. You’ll need the zest of one large lemon for this recipe.
You’re also going to need unsalted butter, baking soda, salt, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and lemon juice. Besides the ingredients for the loaf itself, you should have powdered sugar, lemon juice, and cream to create the lemon-flavored icing/glaze that goes on top.

What if the glaze comes out too thick?
If your glaze seems a bit too thick, you can thin it out using an extra teaspoon of milk. If you have the opposite problem and it’s too thin, add extra powdered sugar to the glaze to thicken it up a bit.
What should I do if I don’t have sour cream?
While sour cream is an ingredient you should have to prepare the Lemon Loaf, you might not have it in the fridge. If not, you can use buttermilk as a substitute for the sour cream. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make it by adding vinegar or lemon juice to milk and allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes.
Should I add the icing while the loaf is still hot?
No, it’s best to wait to add your icing to the Lemon Loaf when it’s no longer hot. Allow it to sit out and cool down for 30-60 minutes before attempting to add your homemade glaze to it.
Do I need real lemons for the loaf?
Yes, it’s best to have real lemons. Not only will you need the lemon for the juice, but also for the zest that you’re going to add to the Lemon Loaf.

How do I store the Lemon Loaf?
You can remove the Lemon Loaf from the loaf pan and then slice it into individual serving slices. Anything that you’re not eating right away can get wrapped in plastic wrap and set off to the side. You can keep it on the counter for two days or put it in the fridge for up to five days to keep it as fresh as possible.