Ingredients
For the Lemon Bread:
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1 (18.25 oz) box yellow cake mix – The foundation of the loaf. Choose a quality brand like Betty Crocker or Pillsbury.
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1 (4.3 oz) box non-instant lemon pudding mix – Adds bold lemon flavor and extra moisture.
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1/2 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the texture tender and rich.
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4 large eggs – Provide structure and richness.
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8 oz sour cream – The secret to ultra-moist bread!
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1/2 cup milk – Loosens the batter and enhances softness.
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6 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – Adds fresh citrus zing.
For the Lemon Glaze:
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2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar – Gives the glaze its signature sweetness and silky texture.
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3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (or more to taste) – Brightens the glaze and adds tang.
Instructions
Ready to bake like a barista? Here’s how to do it:
1. Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two standard loaf pans (about 9×5 inches) with nonstick spray or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Batter
In the bowl of a stand mixer (or large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer), add:
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cake mix
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lemon pudding mix
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oil
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eggs
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sour cream
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milk
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6 tablespoons of lemon juice
Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated. The batter will be thick and smooth.
3. Pour & Bake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake in the center of the oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaves comes out clean. Keep an eye on them around the 45-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
4. Cool the Loaves
Let the lemon loaves cool in the pans for 20 minutes, then gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial—warm loaves soak up the glaze better, but you don’t want them too hot or the glaze will melt.
5. Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and 3 tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth and pourable. Taste and add more lemon juice if you prefer a stronger citrus bite.
6. Glaze Generously
Once the loaves have cooled for at least 20–30 minutes, spoon the glaze evenly over each loaf. Let it drip down the sides—this is the Starbucks signature look! Let the glaze set for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
🍽 How to Serve Lemon Bread
This lemon bread is delicious any time of day! Here are a few serving ideas:
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With morning coffee: Skip the coffee shop and enjoy your own slice with a latte.
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As a brunch centerpiece: Pair it with fresh berries, yogurt, and eggs.
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Pack for lunch: Slice it up and include it in lunchboxes.
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Wrap it as a gift: Wrap slices or whole loaves in parchment, tie with twine, and gift to friends or neighbors.