Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a slice of homemade lemon loaf to brighten your day! This delightful treat is a wonderful balance of sweet and tangy, infused with fresh lemon zest and finished with a glossy lemon glaze. Whether you’re enjoying it with your afternoon tea or serving it at a brunch gathering, this Starbucks copycat lemon loaf is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this lemony goodness right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Be sure to generously grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and fresh lemon zest for that vibrant citrus flavor.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients to the butter and egg mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients for best results.
- Once your batter is beautifully combined, pour it into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Your lemon loaf is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely — if you can resist the temptation of slicing into it right away!
- While the loaf is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. This bright glaze will add a lovely finish to your loaf.
- When the loaf has completely cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides before slicing into delectable pieces.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of lemon flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon extract to the batter. Likewise, you can use buttermilk substitute by mixing regular milk with a bit of lemon juice or vinegar. Enjoy this lovely lemon loaf fresh, or store it in an airtight container to savor it later — if it lasts that long!
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugar properly is crucial for a fluffy texture, so don’t rush this step! Make sure to alternate the dry ingredients with the buttermilk to maintain a light batter. When checking for doneness, remember that ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your loaf as it bakes.
FAQ
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- How should I store the lemon loaf? Keep it covered at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for a week. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly for later enjoyment.
Conclusion
With its tangy flavor and moist, fluffy texture, this copycat Starbucks lemon loaf is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, each slice offers a delightful taste of sunshine. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! Your kitchen is about to be filled with the enchanting aroma of fresh lemon bread.