Starbucks Lemon Loaf
A delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, this moist and velvety cake is enveloped in a zesty glaze, providing a refreshing burst of lemon flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Light and airy for a fluffy texture
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder Helps the loaf rise beautifully
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda Adds extra lift
- 0.25 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness
- 3 large eggs Room temperature to ensure a smooth batter
- 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the loaf to perfection
- 2 tablespoons butter Softened, for richness and moisture
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil Ensures a tender crumb
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice Provides bright, tangy flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest From about 2 lemons, adding aromatic notes
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances overall flavor
- 1/2 cup sour cream Contributes to the loaf's delightful moistness
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar For creating a smooth, sweet glaze
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Gives it a zesty kick
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest For glazing, accentuates lemon flavor
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk For consistency in the glaze
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring the edges overhang.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the eggs and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- Add softened butter to the fluffy egg mixture and beat until well incorporated.
- Stir in vegetable oil, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- Gently fold half of the dry ingredients into the wet batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Add sour cream, mixing completely before incorporating the rest of the dry ingredients.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Baking
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glazing
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and heavy cream until you achieve a smooth glaze.
- Once the loaf is cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Ensure all dairy ingredients are room temperature for a smooth batter. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense loaf. Parchment paper ensures easy removal.