Copycat of Starbucks® Lemon Bread

Introduction

Do you love the moist, tangy goodness of Starbucks® Lemon Bread? If so, you’re in for a treat! This easy-to-follow Copycat of Starbucks® Lemon Bread recipe brings the magic of your favorite coffeehouse right into your kitchen. With its vibrant lemon flavor and irresistibly soft texture, this bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Let’s dive into the details and recreate this iconic delight!

1. Ingredients for the Perfect Lemon Bread

Bread Ingredients

  • 1 (18.25-ounce) package yellow cake mix
  • 1 (4.3-ounce) package non-instant lemon pudding mix
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 8 ounces sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Icing Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, or more to taste

2. Essential Tools You’ll Need

To make this recipe seamless, gather these tools:

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Two loaf pans (preferably nonstick)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Whisk

3. The Magic of Lemon: Why It Works

Lemon is more than just a flavor; it’s an experience. Its zesty tang cuts through sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced bite. The acidity in lemon also interacts with baking ingredients to enhance texture and lift. Think of it as the secret ingredient that turns a good recipe into a great one.

4. Preparing Your Baking Environment

Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pans. This step ensures your lemon bread bakes evenly and doesn’t stick to the pans. A clean, organized workspace can make baking stress-free and enjoyable.

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing the Batter

  1. In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, and 6 tablespoons of lemon juice.
  2. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-blended.

Baking the Bread

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared loaf pans.
  2. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool the loaves in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Making the Lemon Glaze

The icing is what elevates this lemon bread to Starbucks® level. Here’s how to make it:

  1. Whisk together 2 ½ cups of confectioners’ sugar and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice in a bowl until smooth.
  2. Spoon the glaze evenly over the cooled loaves.
  3. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before slicing.

7. Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make your bread dense. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
  • Use Fresh Lemon Juice: Bottled juice lacks the vibrant flavor of fresh lemons.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures smoother mixing and even baking.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the Pudding Mix: This ingredient adds moisture and richness. Don’t leave it out!
  • Overbaking: Start checking your bread at the 45-minute mark to avoid dryness.
  • Rushing the Cooling Process: Letting the bread cool fully helps the glaze set properly.

9. Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storing

  • Store the lemon bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving

  • Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

10. Why Homemade Beats Store-Bought

Homemade lemon bread lets you control the quality of ingredients, ensuring no artificial preservatives or excessive sugars. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so delicious from scratch is unparalleled.

11. Pairing Ideas for Your Lemon Bread

  • Drinks: Coffee, green tea, or a refreshing iced lemonade.
  • Sides: Fresh berries or a light yogurt parfait.

12. Variations to Try

  • Blueberry Lemon Bread: Add fresh blueberries to the batter.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix and pudding mix.
  • Extra Zing: Fold in lemon zest for an intensified lemon flavor.

13. Nutritional Information

Per Slice (Approximate):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fat: 13g
  • Sugar: 30g

14. Conclusion

This Copycat of Starbucks® Lemon Bread recipe is your ticket to a homemade delight that rivals the original. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees success. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start baking!

15. FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Yes, but yellow cake mix provides the best flavor and texture for this recipe.

2. How do I prevent the glaze from being too runny?

Add the lemon juice to the confectioners’ sugar gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

3. Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! A hand mixer or even a whisk will work, though it might take more effort.

4. How can I tell when the lemon bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

5. What’s the best way to freeze lemon bread?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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