If you love the refreshing, zesty flavor of Starbucks Lemon Bread, you’re in for a treat. This copycat recipe replicates the moist, fluffy, and perfectly sweet lemon bread that’s popular at the coffee shop. Bursting with lemony goodness and a subtle sweetness, this loaf is an ideal snack or dessert for any time of day. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

The balance of flavors in this lemon bread is simply irresistible. The fresh lemon juice and zest add a tangy kick, while the rich buttermilk and oil ensure the bread stays soft and tender. The result is a moist, airy loaf with a delightful lemon aroma that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly. This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special baking skills, making it an easy option for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re craving a slice for breakfast or looking to impress guests with a homemade treat, this lemon bread is a surefire winner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Starbucks-Inspired Flavor

This recipe mimics the iconic Starbucks Lemon Bread, offering the same tangy sweetness that fans love.

2. Moist and Tender

Thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and vegetable oil, this lemon bread is wonderfully moist and soft with every bite.

3. Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a treat to share at brunch or a dessert to pair with your coffee, this lemon bread fits the bill.

5. Customizable

You can adjust the lemon flavor to your liking by adding more zest or lemon juice, or you could even glaze the bread for extra sweetness.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Sugar
Butter, softened
Vanilla extract
Lemon extract
Lemon juice
Vegetable oil
Buttermilk
Lemon zest

Variations

Lemon Glaze: Add a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzling it over the cooled bread for an extra burst of sweetness.
Blueberry Lemon Bread: Fold in a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist.
Lemon Poppy Seed Bread: Add 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a classic lemon-poppy seed flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegan Lemon Bread: Replace eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute and use a plant-based butter alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, lemon extract, lemon juice, and vegetable oil until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the lemon zest.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-55 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

Step 6: Cool the Bread

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Overmixing can result in dense bread.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
Check for Doneness: Baking times may vary, so start checking the bread at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Lemon Zest: For the most intense lemon flavor, make sure to use freshly grated zest from a ripe lemon.
Grease the Pan Well: To avoid the bread sticking, grease and flour your pan thoroughly, or line it with parchment paper.

How to Serve

This lemon bread is perfect as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert. Enjoy it as is or serve with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. Pair it with tea or coffee to enhance the citrus flavors. You can also slice it and serve it as a light dessert for a casual gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover lemon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it in plastic wrap for extra freshness.

Freezing

To freeze lemon bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm them in a low oven for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the bread. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk and add a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to achieve a similar effect.

2. Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, vegetable oil can be substituted with canola oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.

3. Can I add more lemon zest for a stronger flavor?

Absolutely! You can add more lemon zest to intensify the citrus flavor.

4. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

5. Why is my bread dense?

If your bread turns out dense, you may have overmixed the batter or used too much flour. Be sure to measure the flour correctly and mix the batter gently.

6. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, a hand mixer works just as well for this recipe.

7. Is this recipe suitable for a 8×4-inch loaf pan?

The recipe is best suited for a 9×5-inch pan, but if you’re using a smaller pan, the baking time may be slightly longer.

8. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and make sure to check the other ingredients for gluten.

9. Can I add a glaze to the bread?

Yes, you can drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled bread for extra sweetness.

10. Can I make this recipe as muffins instead of a loaf?

Yes, you can make this bread as muffins. Bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Conclusion

This Copycat Starbucks Lemon Bread recipe brings the zesty, citrusy delight of the coffee shop version right to your kitchen. With its soft, moist crumb and refreshing lemon flavor, it’s the perfect homemade treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this loaf is sure to please anyone who loves the bright, tangy taste of lemons. Simple to make and easy to customize, this lemon bread will become a staple in your baking repertoire.