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Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf

This homemade Starbucks Lemon Loaf is moist, rich, and bursting with fresh lemon flavor. Topped with a smooth and tangy lemon icing, it's even better than the coffee shop version! Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon treat.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time55 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: copycat Starbucks recipe, homemade lemon bread, lemon pound cake, Starbucks lemon loaf
Servings: 10
Calories: 432kcal

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 3.4 oz instant lemon pudding mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons lemon extract
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • Zest of 1 lemon

For the Frosting:

  • 3 tablespoons butter softened (not melted)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon extract

Instructions

  • Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 5 x 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the pan and parchment with non-stick baking spray.
  • Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Mix wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the eggs, sugar, butter, vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon juice, oil, and Greek yogurt until well combined.
  • Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the lemon zest.
  • Bake the loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool the loaf: Let the cake cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then remove the loaf from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat the butter, lemon juice, and lemon extract with a mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
  • Frost and serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled loaf. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serving tip: Let the loaf sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Flavor boost: Add extra lemon zest to the frosting for even more citrus flavor!