Starbucks Style Lemon Loaf Cake
A moist and tangy loaf cake reminiscent of your favorite coffee shop treat, this Starbucks Style Lemon Loaf Cake features a bright lemon flavor and is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Essentials
- 225 g margarine or unsalted butter, softened Unsalted butter for flavor control.
- 225 g caster sugar Fine sugar dissolves nicely.
- 4 large eggs, room temperature Help structure and moisture.
- 225 g self-raising flour Already contains raising agent.
- 1 zest of lemon Use unwaxed lemons.
- 50 g icing sugar For lemon syrup.
- 50 ml lemon juice For lemon syrup.
- 250 g icing sugar For lemon icing.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice For lemon icing.
- 1 tbsp milk For lemon icing.
Optional add-ons
- 1-2 tsp poppy seeds For a classic lemon-poppy loaf.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract For a warmer flavor.
- 1-2 tbsp soured cream or Greek yogurt For extra softness.
- 75-100 g fresh blueberries or raspberries Folded in for a fruity twist.
- 30 g butter For streusel topping.
- 30 g flour For streusel topping.
- 30 g sugar For streusel topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line a 9x5" loaf tin with parchment paper.
- Soften the butter or margarine and bring room temperature to the eggs.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Fold in sifted self-raising flour and lemon zest gently until just combined.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the lined tin and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Making the Syrup and Icing
- Mix icing sugar with lemon juice to create the syrup while the cake bakes.
- Drizzle the syrup over the warm cake after baking.
- Make lemon icing by combining icing sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
Finishing
- Let the cake cool and then drizzle with the icing.
- Allow the glaze to set for 20-30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Measure ingredients accurately and avoid overmixing. The lemon syrup step is crucial for moisture.