Starbucks inspired lemon loaf

Starbucks-Inspired Lemon Loaf with Greek Yogurt

Ingredients

For the Lemon Loaf:

    •    1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)

    •    1 teaspoon baking powder

    •    ½ teaspoon baking soda

    •    ½ teaspoon salt

    •    3 large eggs

    •    1 cup granulated sugar (200g)

    •    ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (125g, full-fat or 2%)

    •    ½ cup vegetable oil (120ml)

    •    2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

    •    Zest of 2 lemons

    •    ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (60ml)

    •    1 teaspoon vanilla extract

    •    ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Lemon Glaze:

    •    1 ½ cups powdered sugar (180g)

    •    2–3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

    •    1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:

    •    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    •    Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

    •    In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients:

    •    In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until smooth and pale. Add the Greek yogurt, vegetable oil, melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until well combined.

4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:

    •    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be smooth but not overworked.

5. Bake the Lemon Loaf:

    •    Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

    •    Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    •    Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Lemon Glaze:

    •    In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest (if using) until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.

7. Glaze the Loaf:

    •    Once the loaf is fully cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top. Let it set for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success:

    •    Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat or 2% plain Greek yogurt for the best texture and flavor. Avoid fat-free varieties as they may affect the loaf’s moisture.

    •    Lemons: Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.

    •    Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Enjoy this moist, tangy, and sweet lemon loaf that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea!