Introduction
Imagine this: a sunny afternoon, the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your kitchen, and a deliciously moist lemon loaf cooling on the counter. This Starbucks Copycat Lemon Loaf recipe brings a burst of sunny flavor with every slice, making it perfect for brunch, dessert, or simply a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of tea. With its tender crumb and zesty glaze, this homemade version is bound to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that luscious batter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a dreamy base for your loaf.
- Next, add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in the vanilla extract, lemon extract, freshly grated lemon zest, and lemon juice for that delightful citrus punch.
- Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix—this keeps your loaf tender and fluffy!
- Pour the delicious batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should be golden brown and aromatic!
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help the texture set perfectly.
- For the final touch, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over the cooled loaf before slicing to create a sweet, shiny finish.
Notes or Tips
For an added burst of flavor, consider folding in some poppy seeds or blueberries before baking. These little additions can elevate the loaf and give it an extra twist. Always make sure your ingredients are at room temperature to achieve the best results!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, take your time! Use room-temperature butter for optimal creaming, which helps to create a light texture. Be cautious while mixing your dry and wet ingredients—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so just blend until everything is combined.
FAQ
Can I substitute the buttermilk? Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How should I store my lemon loaf? Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months.
Conclusion
This delightful lemon loaf is a simple yet impressive treat that brings the flavors of a coffee shop right into your home. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with family or surprising a friend with a thoughtful gift, it’s sure to spread joy. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor every moist, zesty bite of this homemade treasure!