Starbucks Lemon Loaf Recipe
This Starbucks Lemon Loaf recipe offers a moist and zesty lemon-flavored cake with a creamy lemon frosting. Perfect for a refreshing dessert or afternoon treat, the loaf combines the tanginess of fresh lemon juice and zest with the smooth richness of Greek yogurt and butter, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- Author: lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3.4 oz instant lemon pudding mix
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 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
Frosting
- 3 tablespoons butter (soft but not melted)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon extract
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Trace the bottom of a 5 x 9″ loaf pan onto parchment paper, cut it out, and line the pan bottom with it. Spray both the pan and parchment with non-stick baking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, instant lemon pudding mix, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the eggs, sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, lemon extract, fresh lemon juice, vegetable oil, and Greek yogurt until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing slowly and scraping the bowl sides to ensure even incorporation. Fold in the lemon zest and mix only until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Bake the Loaf: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 55 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool the Loaf: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges to loosen it, invert the pan to remove the loaf, and peel off the parchment paper. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixer, beat the softened butter, lemon juice, and lemon extract until blended. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing continuously until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Frost and Set: Evenly spread the frosting over the cooled lemon loaf. Refrigerate the frosted loaf to allow the frosting to set completely before slicing. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best lemon flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the loaf tender.
- Ensure the loaf is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Refrigerate leftover lemon loaf to maintain freshness and frosting texture.
- Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream for a slightly different tangy flavor if desired.
Keywords: Starbucks lemon loaf, lemon cake, lemon loaf recipe, easy lemon dessert, moist lemon cake, lemon pudding mix cake