Sweet frosted healthy lemon cake…
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A soft and fluffy lemon cake that instantly melts as it touches your lips…
Sure, that irresistibly moist lemon cake from Starbucks is hard to resist. But with almost 500 calories, a staggering 9 grams saturated fat, and more than half the sugar limit you’re supposed to consume in an entire day, Starbucks’ famed lemon cake is not even close to a healthy breakfast!
To put things in perspective: You could actually eat seven frosted slices of today’s makeover healthy lemon cake and still not equal the calories and saturated fat in just one slice from Starbucks!
This recipe can be low-fat / low-sugar / whole-grain / under 100 calories per slice
So you could save the Starbucks lemon cake for a rare special occasion… or you could eat this homemade healthy lemon cake every single day.
And it’s so good you’ll probably want to do just that!
Healthy Lemon Cake
Starbucks Healthy Lemon Cake
Print This Recipe
[mrp_rating_result show_count="false" show_rich_snippets="false"]
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup yogurt of choice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 3 1/2 tbsp oil OR more yogurt of choice if oil-free is desired (35g)
- 1/2 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- zest one lemon
- 1 cup spelt or white flour (or bob’s gf + 1/2 tsp xanthan) (130g)
- scant 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp plus 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup xylitol or sugar of choice (100g)
- Optional Powdered Sugar Glaze: 1/4 cup powdered sugar or sugar-free powdered sugar + 1 tsp lemon juice.
Instructions
*2019 Update: This makes a small (8×5) loaf. For a larger loaf, be sure to try this Vegan Lemon Bread!
Starbucks lemon cake healthy makeover: Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease an 8×5 loaf pan, and set aside. In a bowl, whisk the first 5 ingredients. In a separate bowl, stir together all remaining ingredients. Pour wet into dry, and stir just until evenly mixed. Smooth into the loaf pan, and bake 25 minutes or until loaf has risen and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool, then spread the glaze on top if a glaze is desired. Glaze hardens when it cools, and you can refrigerate to expedite the process if you wish. For optimum freshness, store leftover lemon cake slices in the fridge or even in the freezer.
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Hannah S says
OMG I am so excited to try this out! Thank you for sharing!
http://www.southernfolly.com
Catherin B. says
Do I have to make an adjustment in the liquid depending on whether I use “regular” yogurt or the denser Greek yogurt? This would be nice after Easter dinner. Thanks.
Chocolate Covered Katie says
I’ve not tried it with a Greek-style yogurt, so my best advice would be to follow the recipe and add extra liquid if the batter looks too thick. You will have to experiment!
Catherin B says
Thanks, Katie! I wasn’t sure whether “yogurt of choice” included Greek-style. I will just use ordinary yogurt. I pre-ordered your cookbook and have already given one to a friend. Keep up the good work and friendly comments on your blog! You have quite a following.
Tiffany says
I did the greek yogurt and I found my cake to be a little denser and flatter, but tasted great!
Mary says
I tried the greek yogurt and it worked fine. Didn’t need to add any extra liquid either. Can’t wait to try it.
Ann says
Mine worked fine! And it tastes delicious! I have had the Starbucks one before, and I actually think this one is better! I would say that even if it weren’t healthy! It’s lighter and spongey and not as heavy or dense as the overly sweet Starbucks lemon cake, and the lemon flavor is perfect!
J says
I felt the same way. Starbucks loaf is too dense and sweet. This one was perfect!
Cassie says
OMG! I’ve been craving lemon cake! This looks so so good!
Alison @ Sweetly Petite says
Katie, this looks absolutely delicious! You never cease to amaze me! 🙂
Kathy Vondra says
Why don’t you offer a print option for your recipes? They all look so yummy but it’s hard to remember the ones I like, so I would love to have the option to print the ones I would like to try.
Thank you!
Chocolate Covered Katie says
Unfortunately, the company who made the plugin I was using went out of business a few months after I began offering a print option. I’m working with a design team to completely change the site at the moment, but in the meantime you can always highlight just the recipe and right click. It should give you an option to print from there.
Claudia says
Just tried it wanted to print all 13 pages ! :o(
Lynda says
Oh, hi,
When you go to print it, after dragging to select what you want printed, after saying Print, you “should” get the option on the print page to print “selected” only. I guess that might depend on your printer.
Hope that works for you.
Sharon says
I clicked “Ctrl+P” after I had the page brought up. It just shows the recipe…1 page.
Monica Carten says
Katie,
What brand and flavor of yogurt did you use? I love Whole Soy Unsweetened Vanilla but just found out the company is going out of business! Maybe homemade yogurt will be a recipe here on CCK soon?–hint-hint!
http://www.wholesoyco.com/item/farewell-from-wholesoy#comments
Chocolate Covered Katie says
They still sell it over here, so I was very sad to hear they’re going under. They were most definitely my favorite brand.
Sheri says
Do you think this will work in an 8″ round and layer with fresh strawberries? I don’t have a loaf pan. This looks amazing! You are pure genius!
Chocolate Covered Katie says
I’ve not tried, but if you experiment be sure to report back 🙂
Shashi at RunninSrilankan says
Starbucks lemon cake is the only pastry item I get from them – I adore it – so I cannot wait to give this a try! Looks absolutely wonderful!
Love Low Fat says
Wow these look SO amazing! The ones at starbucks are great but this looks WAY better, can’t wait to try!
easypeasy says
This sounds amazing!!! Thanks for sharing it is so hard to find whole wheat treat recipes. I can’t wait to this! 🙂
Anita says
I’m wondering why so little lemon in this cake? I love your recipes but Is it really only the zest of 1 lemon?
For real lemon lovers I’m not sure if that is enough.
Chocolate Covered Katie says
Don’t forget the lemon juice 😉
Anita says
Thank you!! I need to read with my glasses on! I look forward to making this with the lemon juice! Lol
Debbie says
I used the zest of two lemons and the cake was fabulous!
Megan says
Speaking of starbucks….
Have you ever experimented with making chocolate covered coffee beans? I loooove these and want to try making them at home with your chocolate bar recipe. I wonder if the coffee beans should be prepped any special way, guess I’ll see 🙂
Chocolate Covered Katie says
I’ve not tried, but probably start with cold beans. That way the chocolate will instantly harden if you use coconut oil 🙂
Nicole {VeganShowOff.com} says
Awesome! This was my absolute favorite treat from Starbucks before I became vegan! Had no clue about the calories/saturated fat though. Geesh along with the latte I used to get that combo certainly was far from healthy! Can’t wait to give this healthy version a try! Yummy!
Lindsey @ Simply Lindsey says
I love lemon cake, especially from Starbucks, so I will definitely be making this healthier recipe soon! Yum!!
Caroline says
This looks absolutely amazing! My husband loooooves the lemon cake from Starbucks so I’ll have to make this for him. I was wondering if you think using whole wheat pastry flour would work?
Sandra says
I used whole wheat flour, not pastry flour, and it did not turn out. Could not eat it it. Reccomend white flour only.
Amy says
Maybe your flour was off? That happened to me one time, I used wholemeal spelt for a CCK chocolate cake and it did not rise at all and was dense and horrible! Not the recipe but the flour. Wholemeal tends to go bad quicker than white flour because it’s still got the ‘germ’ around it. White flour is much more stable and keeps far longer than wholemeal, which is what they started producing it, to have a flour with a longer shelf life.
Vanessa says
I used half regular whole wheat and half regular all purpose flour and didn’t have to change/add anything else for it to turn out delicious and moist! I did put the zest of 2 lemons in this one (instead of 1), as I like lemony flavors and also added poppy seed at the end, just mixed in with the batter. I’ve experimented with a lot of recipes (for example the healthy banana bread) and if I apply the half and half adjustment it’s always a success. If the batter turns out to be a bit on the dry side, as whole wheat flour absorbs more liquid, I add 1/3 cup of whatever liquid is used in the recipe. Hope this was helpful!
Ariane Newell says
I used the whole wheat pastry flour. Delicious.
Alysa says
Lemon!! My absolute favorite! Sadly, I am out of vegan yogurt, is there anything that I can replace it with without ruining the texture to much?
Ariane Newell says
I could not wait to get the yogurt. I used vegan mayo and added more lemon peel for the missing yogurt tartness. Delicious.
Leslie says
I love all things lemon and this is no exception! I’m tying to watch what I eat so if I can slim it in anyway, it’s going in my mouth. Haha. Thanks for sharing!
Matea says
I haven’t tried Starbucks’ lemon cake and I won’t need to now! This lemon cake looks delicious! 🙂
Kate says
Will be making this in the near future!
I am assuming that you used plain yogurt. If I used sweetened yogurt do you think I can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Diane says
I’m not Katie, but the yogurt I used when I made this is not unsweetened and I didn’t change anything about the recipe and it worked out really well. The texture was perfect, and it didn’t even need the glaze or any type of icing. It was sweet enough on its own. So you might even end up with a lower sugar result due to the fact that the sweetness from the yogurt allows you to not use the glaze. The cake was really good just by itself.
stefanie says
OMG thank you soooo much !!! I’ve looked every where for a vegan cake and who other than the best vegan blogger in the world could take on the task. Again thank you so very very much!
Jen says
Does this recipe have to be refrigerated after baking (due to the yogurt)? My brother loves all things lemon, and I would love to make this and mail it to him 🙂
Anna says
Yes, she does mention it’s best kept refrigerated for optimal freshness
Melina says
Some time ago I found some xylitol in the store and was so excited to make your recipes that make use of it! I tried two different recipes and I found it extremely bitter and strangely it would somewhat burn my mouth, almost like something unpleasantly spicy but without the flavor of spicy foods. I was so disappointed. Could it be my brand? What brand xylitol are you using?
Anon says
Wow not sure if this is the same thing but a small percentage of people get a bitter taste in their mouth when consuming artificial sweeteners.
Natasha Hammond says
I have tried multiple brands of xylitol and never experienced this.. perhaps there is something in it that you are sensitive to? For me, xylitol tastes very sweet and has a slight cooling sensation, which is why I think it gets used in gum and toothpastes sometimes.
Ariane Newell says
I believe it was Katie (or another vegan chef blogger) who explained once about mixing it up if you use artificial sweeteners. Try using part sweetener with something natural. On this cake I used 1/4 c erythritol and 5 blended dates. It affects the color somewhat but the sweetness was perfect. I didn’t even have the glaze.
Beth H says
I don’t get any bitterness after having xylitol, but something that may help? I use Monk Fruit to replace sugar/xylitol, to me, it tastes just like sugar!
Can’t wait to try this recipe tonight! My husband loves lemon and I’m going to make this for his 40th bday tomorrow!
Sharon says
Katie,
Can we substitute anything for the yogurt that is not milk or yogurt? Would a thick cashew cream work?
Sharon
Katherine B says
Hey! I have not tried Katie’s recipe, so I can’t make any guarantees, but I have made this “yogurt” replacement previously, and it was fabulous and delicious. I ate it with fruit and granola, but the recipe creator says it can be used as a replacement for storebought vegan yogurt in recipes. It’s cashew-based. Anyways, here it is if you want to try it:
http://plantpoweredkitchen.com/vanilla-cashew-yogurt-vegan/#comment-11260
Sharon says
Hi, Katherine B. Thank you so much for taking the time to post this recipe substitution. I have a milk allergy so most yogurts are off limits. This will help me tremendously.
Katherine B says
No problem! I’m vegan, so I don’t do dairy yogurts either. They do sell some cultured non-dairy yogurts like coconut and almondmilk varieties (SoDelicious brand) or soy (Trader Joe’s or WholeSoy,) but they are a little expensive. Hope you like this cashew-based one!
Sharon says
I have just mixed it all up in my blender. I will try Katie’s lemon cake tomorrow! I can’t. I did not have applesauce but one of the reviewers said she didn’t add it and the yogurt was fine. So I left the applesauce out. It blended into the silkiest, prettiest yogurt I have ever had. I have had to stop myself from just eating it until I can use it in Katie’s recipe, lol. I am going to keep that stuff around. Thank you, again. I can’t wait to use this in all the recipes that require yogurt. I am not sure it would in something that is not a dessert, but it should definitely work in any dessert. I will know tomorrow!
Veronika says
Katie, I’m so glad you’re posting so many recipes that can easily be made low fat and oil free. I know all about healthy fats, but I was diagnosed with gallstones last year, so I avoid oil like the devil. But of course I still indulge in occasional healthy treats, and lemon-based desserts are my absolute favourite. Thank you for sharing this recipe, I will try it ASAP!
Faigy says
Has anyone tried subbing almond flour or coconut flour for the spelt? If so, how did it come out? What measurements did you use to replace the spelt? Thanks!
Marcie says
If you want to sub coconut flour you will have to up the liquid significantly as coconut flour absorbs A LOT of liquid. Most non-vegan recipes that use it usually have a ratio of something like 1/2 C coconut flour to 8 eggs, so I am not sure how it would work out.
Debbie says
I just tried this with coconut flour. I increased the yogurt an extra 1/4 cup (I used a half cup originally and left out the oil, so 3/4 cup total) and some extra lemon juice that I didn’t measure. I had juiced 4 lemons, took out the 2 teaspoons needed for glaze (I doubled the glaze) and used the rest. The cake came out a little more crumbly than with regular flour but it works and it’s delicious! I used coconut yogurt.
Karen says
I did! 2/3 cup almond flour and 1/3 cup spelt worked out beautifully. I think you could replace all of it with almond and it would still be fine. 🙂 Coconut is more tricky.
Ann says
I just pulled mine from the oven and it is so delicious! I like it even better than the Starbucks version! It’s much lighter and not sickly sweet.
Stacey says
I made this today using plain greek yogurt, sucanat and a combination of spelt, oat and wh. wheat flours. It is absolutely fabulous! Unfortunately I’ve eaten half of the loaf which, I imagine, defeats the purpose. It really is amazing though!!
Ashley says
I have been looking for a healthier homemade of this recipe for what feels like forever! THANK YOU!
Jordyn Senger says
Just made this and ate a piece and it’s AWESOME! I would make this again in a heartbeat! I doubled the recipe to make two loaves, but they came out only about an inch high lol. Next time I’ll triple it to get two loaves so they’re a bit bigger 🙂
Also I made mine with Greek yogurt and didn’t change the measurements, and I think they came out just fine! Like I said, just kinda small.
Denisse says
Hi!!! I just made one recipe and the loaf hardly rose. Is that how it is supposed to be because Katie’s pictures seem so thick and large yet mine is uber small. Kind of like a tart. Tastes amazing though!
Lucia says
Katie! This recipe is sooooo good! I know you were just using it as a comparison and didn’t really mean we should eat seven slices, but I kinda want to 😉
Don’t worry, I only had three so far 😉
I can’t believe how deliciously this recipe came out for so few calories. I’m on a strict diet, and finding your site has been helpful more than I can even tell you. And my family thanks you too, because I can now make recipes we can all enjoy. This bread was a hit with the whole family 🙂
Chloe says
Looks like a great recipe, can’t wait to try it!
Audrey says
it looks great! I don’t have any xylitol, do you know if it works with splenda?
Meredith says
I would like to know if we need to half the sugar amount if we use Truvia? So excited to try this!
Juli says
Personally, I’d never use Splenda for anything. It totally defeats the “healthy” in any recipe. Try Monk fruit or Stevia, which are derived from plants, so they’re not artificial.
Andrea says
WOW is all I can say after tasting this recipe. Its not often that a recipe will leave me speechless, but this one did.
After trying it plain, I don’t even think it needs a glaze at all! It is so good even by itself!
If anyone reading this isn’t sure if they should try this lemon cake because they’re not into healthy food or low calorie desserts, MAKE THIS NOW! Even my husband asked for seconds and he is the farthest thing from a health food nut and usually will decline the healthier desserts I make.
anonymous says
This cake was phenomenal. Thanks for posting the recipe! ♥
Erin @ Miss Scrambled Egg says
Katie – I work a Starbucks and try my best to avoid the pastry case. I usually succeed; however, the lemon cake is usually whispering my name from the corner of my eye. This makeover is perfectly adapted. If you like making french presses, try the lemon cake with Kenya coffee. The acid in the coffee mellows out the intensity of the cake. 😀
emily says
Just served this for breakfast, and I can say it’s one of the top 10 recipes we’ve made from your site, along with the cookie dough dip, zucchini brownies, breakfast cupcakes, fudgey pudding cake, and others. We’re slowly making our way through your blog. I think it’s safe to say we love CCK recipes! 😉
Lauren says
I just made this and it’s so delicious! Light and just the right amount of lemon. I swirled in some cherry preserves before baking it, it was a good addition 🙂
Jules @ WolfItDown says
This looks fantastic! One of my favourite humble cakes as a child, was my granny’s amazing lemon cake 😀 So good! x
Lisa says
Made this last night and it came out great- it tastes exactly like Starbucks version !!!
Anna says
This is delicious!! I’m not normally a big fan of lemony desserts, but I loved this! Didn’t bother making the glaze. It’s so yummy it doesn’t need the glaze!
Gemma Carey says
It was so delicious!
Angela says
What does it mean by “SCANT” 1/2 tsp baking soda?
Anna says
It means barely, so you use just a little less than 1/2 tsp baking soda
Karin M says
After a particularly challenging day I found this recipe in my inbox. I immediately pulled out a lemon and got to work. The recipe is so simple after a rough day, and so crazy good. I pulled it from the oven when it still needed probably a couple more minutes, glazed it right away and ate some warm. Oh. My. Stars. I struggled to contain my selfish joy when my son said the sweet/tart just wasn’t for him. (It’s all mine!!!)
Wendy says
Ha! I wish my sons had felt the same way. They barely left any for me!
Nicki says
Oh my this looks lovely x
Kelsey @ Snacking Squirrel says
This was a very smart idea as theirs is too high in so many things. But a slimmed down version of it can be helpful for anyone who wants to indulge. xo
Hilary says
I used to eat that Starbucks lemon cake all the time- it was so good! Now it’s just too sweet and a calorie bomb. Made this tonight and it was amazing!
Laura says
Katie, I’ve been meaning to say thank you so much for including a gluten free option with all your newer recipes! It does not go unappreciated!!
Heather says
The bread looks amazing! Do you think you could use coconut flour in this? If so how much would you use instead of the gluten free mix~
Thank you!
Heather says
Oh my stars this is good! I went out today to Poundland and bought a loaf pan for £1 just to try this and it did not disappoint. I used wholemeal spelt flour and it came out lovely. I also added 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds because i happened to have some. Bliss! Thank you! I have just ordered your cookbook and cannot wait to try more recipes! Cheers!
J says
I am a huge lemon poppyseed lover so I wish I had read this before I made mine. Mine was delicious but I only imagine it would even be better with the addition of poppyseeds, if that’s even possible!
I guess now I have an excuse to make another one 😉
Laura says
I made this cake today using Greek yogurt and it was amazing!! So tasty, moist and the perfect amount of tart. I’m about to go out and get more lemons to make another loaf!
Ryan C says
I just made this today, and it was delightful (as was the scent in my kitchen after baking it)!! I had never tried Starbucks’ version, mainly due to the nutritional info, but I am sure that this is far superior. I had completely forgotten to buy the Xylitol at the store, so I had to use some organic cane sugar, but I will definitely try to make it all the more healthy next time!! 🙂
Rachel says
I made this cake for a party last night and it turned out great! I used a little more yogurt (1/2 c) and a little less oil (2.5 T) than the recipe called for, plus doubled the glaze so I could get a good drizzle over the whole cake. I’m typically a good cook and not so great baker, but this cake was so easy, anyone could make it! Will definitely be making this again.
Caterina says
This cake looks so yummy, I would like to try it out as soon as possible!
Since I’m from Europe, could you please add the converted-in-grams measurements please? 🙂
J says
I just posted a picture of my results to instagram. This cake turned out so well, and I agree with another person who commented that it is better than the Starbucks version. It really really is! 🙂 Great job, Katie!
Honey, What's Cooking? says
Looks great. I love starbucks lemon cake, it’s always nice to see a healthier version of it.
Kelly says
I tried this recipe and it was a flop. I don’t blame the recipe…I live at high altitude, and I’ve about decided to give up baking 🙁 I’ll try it again and maybe add a “chia egg” and/or baking powder(?). Ugh! I love Colorado, but baking here is the pits!
CCK helper says
What flour did you use? And what size loaf pan? I’ve never baked in high altitudes but hear it can be a pain!
Kelly says
I used Bob’s all purpose flour and a 5 x 8 loaf pan. I also cut the baking soda in half and increased the temp to 375 degrees (for high altitude baking). Maybe I should pretend I’m not at altitude and just follow the recipe and see how it works…;) Thanks for your help!
Katie says
Hey I know this is kind of late, but I live in Colorado as well, after moving from Texas, and what I usually do is up the oven temperature 15-25 degrees (just depending on how hot it is already; I’d do this one at 375) and I never mess with the amount of baking soda. If there is a significant amount of baking powder, I might decrease it by 1/8 tsp per tsp of baking powder. Sometimes decreasing the sugar by just a bit, or increasing liquids by a tablespoon or two also helps. I hope this helps you or at least someone else reading it! 🙂
Lisette says
Wow, this was really lemony! I liked the tartness, but my family thought it was a little too sour. If I wanted to tinker the recipe to make it sweeter, should I add more sugar, or use less lemon juice, or both? Also, was it supposed to rise very much? My loaf was almost flat, but it still tasted great.
Thanks for the recipe, Katie! As always, this was so good I could hardly believe it is healthy. (And you are really good at food photography, by the way!)
CCK helper says
Use more sugar if you wish for it to be sweeter, although I found this one plenty sweet! What size loaf pan did you use?
Martina says
I agree. Too sour for my taste. (I don’t know how it supposed to be since I’ve never been to Starbucks). Next time I’m trying with 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup water instead. Maybe depends on what kind of lemons you use – our homegrown are small and very sour.
Martina says
But the texture is great!
R says
Your Are Awesome Katie! Every “unique” desert recipe I’ve tried to locate through Pinterest, keeps referring me to your amazing collection. Thank You Keep Up The great work!
(Wow: Strawberry Lemon Cake Healthy Make-Over, No Bake Chocolate Pumpkin Pie ….and the list of your recipes keeps growing-on! : )
Helen says
My whole family loved this!
Courtney says
Does this recipe still work with a liquid sweetener like agave or maple syrup?
Caitlin says
I am eating two slices of this moist lemon cake just out of the oven as I type this, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best recipes I’ve ever made from a blog. I’m just hoping it’s not all gone by tomorrow! 😉
Christine says
This cake is really good! I frosted it with coconut butter and it was delicious! I bought your cookbook a couple weeks ago and can’t stop baking! Every recipe I have tried has been incredible! Thanks so much for sharing them 🙂
Melissa says
I made this for Easter and it was a big success! I really regret not making two loaves. Happy Easter, Katie and thank you for putting all of these delicious recipes out there for us! 🙂
Ilana says
This recipe is a keeper!
I served it to guests for Easter brunch this morning and it received rave reviews. Usually with blogs I might find one or two recipes I want to try, but with yours I’ve already bookmarked so many. And everything I’ve made has been terrific!
Kaya says
Thanks for another great recipe, Katie!
Tina says
Made this for Easter brunch and it was excellent! I used vanilla greek yogurt and it turned out great without the need for added liquid. Will definitely be making this again and again!!
rachel says
really good! five stars out of five, and like others said it didn’t even need the icing. great recipe!
Angie says
This is my fifth or sixth time making the recipe now, so I figured it was probably high time I left a comment about it on the page thanking you for the delicious recipe. I don’t usually have success with recipes I’ve tried from other blogs, but yours never fails me. Thanks for yet another successful recipe!
Michelle says
I cannot believe how good this is! I’ve only had the lemon cake from Starbucks a few times (normally I am more of a drinks girl at Starbucks). But I can say with assurance that this one is way better! The fact that it’s so much lower in calories and sugar is just icing on the cake. The lemon cake 😉 😉
sarah says
I made this yesterday and it was absolutely delicious! I used muscovado sugar which made the cake brown in color (and didn’t look like lemon cake at all..lol), but you know how looks could be decieving. Everyone in the family loved it! Definitely won’t be the last time I’m making this. Thank you!
Nicole Buesen says
So I tried seeing if someone else already asked, but my question is in regards to the nutritional information. It says 49grams is a serving size, but I’m not sure if that’s when the cake has been sliced into 8 or 10 slices. Has anyone had a chance to figure this out? My scale doesn’t like me when I try to figure grams.
Thanks
Katy says
Hi Nicole,
I’m not 200% sure, but I believe the nutrition is based on 8 slices. You can always enter the ingredients into an online (free) nutrition calculator and see what matches your serving size best.
Hope this helps!
Katy says
This is SO good! I just made it with whole wheat flour and light and fluffy texture was not compromised at all. I will definitely have to store it in the freezer, otherwise it’s all going to disappear before lunch 🙂
debbi staats says
I wonder …for those of us with dairy allergies…if you could substitute almond or coconut yogurt for the yogurt (or even coconut cream????)..I am really new to this “a whole bunch of food allergies” life! just looking for some options and this looks delish!!! thanks so much for any thoughts out there! (oh no eggs either 🙂
Debbi
Chocolate Covered Katie says
You can! I am actually vegan and do not use yogurt. I usually use Wholesoy (going out of business, sadly) or So Delicious coconutmilk yogurt. 🙂
Shelly Hawes-Smith says
Hey Katie.. anything that I can sub for the yogurt?
Abby says
Do you think this would work with sprouted spelt flour?
Katrina M says
Does anyone know if this loaf freezes well to make ahead of time? It looks delicious!
kaytee says
Mmmm I made this with coconut yogurt and coconut oil, and the combination with the lemon is fantastic. Thanks for another great recipe. (Also for some reason my cat wants to eat this cake. Not sure why as I didn’t think a cat would like lemon. Maybe he likes coconut?! Anyway, he’s not getting any 😀 )
lauren Bockisch says
yup that looks good. but even better with my cookies n’ cream pudding. like :
https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/2015/05/18/rainbow-fruit-kabobs/#comment-3363672
Diana says
This cake was incredibly delicious, but it didn’t rise very much. I used a 8.5×4.5 pan. Could adding more baking soda or baking powder work to keep it from being so flat?
Will says
Recipe says to use an 8-inch pan, not 8.5
Jackson says
LOVED LOVED LOVED this recipe!!!!! Thank you!!!!
Rachel says
Just in case anybody was wondering, I just experimented by smoothing one tablespoon of batter into each of 24 mini muffin tins and they came out beautifully. I now have perfect little lemon cakes for a Game of Thrones party. ^^
Jessica says
I just made this recipe to the letter in the exact size pan recommended with all the exact ingredients. It tastes delicious but it didn’t rise so my whole cake is only like 1 1/2 inches tall. I wish I knew what happened
CCK Media Team says
Hi! Sorry for how late this reply is, but I just saw your comment and wanted to update that there’s now a larger version of the recipe in case you want to make it again someday and get results with the same flavor but a larger size 🙂
https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/vegan-lemon-bread-recipe/
Will says
I saw your post on facebook and realized I never gave feedback after trying this cake a few months ago for the first time. Since then, I have made it twice more. I guess that means it’s good! Haha.
Really though, I love the recipe! Haven’t been to Starbucks in years, but this satisfies any craving I have for lemony desserts, and I can’t imagine Starbucks version being any better than this!
Kaitlin says
This was really yummy! My best friend shared it on facebook this morning and I have the day off from work. Sounds crazy that someone would want to spend her day off on a hot summer day in front of a hot oven, but that’s what I did! And the results were sooooo worth it!
Debbie says
I’m getting tired of having my mouth banded shut after a softball shattered my face (and major reconstructive surgery), and the diet that goes with it. I can’t chew anything at all. Period. When you wrote that this cake melts in your mouth I decided to try it – and it does! This beats all the soup and mashed potatoes I’ve been sustaining on right now. This cake is amazing even if your mouth isn’t shut and you’re not on a crazy soft food / liquid diet! This cake is so yummy. I’ve made a few of your recipes for this crazy time in my life and you have some that have truly helped me get through this ordeal. Tomorrow I’m trying the Peanut Butter Breakfast Pudding, even though all of it will have to go in the blender. Thanks Katie! You help people in ways you don’t even know 😉
Sarah says
Oh no! Feel better!
Debbie says
Thanks! Glad you and your kids liked the cake too!
Sarah says
You have made three very happy kids this morning when I served them this recipe for breakfast along with eggs and fresh fruit. Not to mention one very happy mom! 🙂 We love your recipes, Katie!
Kerri Murphy says
I made this with a mixture of real and bottled lemon juice and it was SO good! It would probably be best with pure lemon but you go with what you got. I’m making it again, this time with real lemon, bottled lemon, bottled lime and a dash of lemon soda and will see how it turns out. If the batter on the spoon is any indication then this is gonna be yumm
Heidi says
My husband loves the original Starbucks cake, so this was a winner in our house! The only thing is that it came out a little flat. Is that normal or maybe I did something wrong. I did use whole wheat flour because I didn’t have spelt. Could that have made the difference? It still tasted delicious though and will definitely make it again!
Gina says
Whole Wheat flour is much more dens than spelt flour. Read Katie’s FAQ page. It says you are free to substitute flours but at your own risk, and she does not recommend whole wheat because of its densness.
Anisa says
Would this recipe work if I tried oranges instead of lemons?
Gina says
Sounds delicious! Please write back if you try it!
Esther says
I just made this with a (very) small lemon and a large orange. Very yummy!!
Gina says
I’ve made this twice, once with half all purpose flour and half spelt, and once full spelt. Both times were delicious!
Esther says
I only had one small lemon so I added in a large orange to fill the 1/2 lemon juice and only used the lemon for the zest. It’s delicious! A yummy citrus-y cake with a mainly lemon flavor. I also used greek yogurt and didn’t add any extra liquid. I made this for my family for breakfast and it was definitely a favorite! I’m also always recommending your recipes to my highschool friends, thanks Katie!! <3
Laurie says
Katie,
Do you have GF version of this recipe? If not, do you think this recipe will work using coconut yogurt and gluten free all purpose flour? I enjoy your recipes, and I’d love to try this one. Love lemon cake!
Unofficial CCK Helper says
I successfully made this one using Bobs gf all purpose. No xantham gum even!
Stasi C says
I doubled the recipe in a Bundt pan and it came out perfect!
Shanna says
I have tried a number of your recipes with great success and am excited to make this! Living in the Seattle area, I’m always tempted by Starbucks’ lemon cake and now can indulge in a healthy way. Thanks for sharing!
Have you tackled a healthy version of the Starbucks pumpkin loaf?
Unofficial CCK Helper says
There is a Healthy Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Loaf in her cookbook if you have it. It is one of my favorite recipes in the book! (I’m not affiliated with the book, just a fan)
Karen Doll says
Hi Katie,
Love, love, love your healthy makeover recipes!! When I bake, I always bake it low fat.
michelle says
Does the fat percentage of the yogurt matter? I have some 0% but would it need to be higher? Thanks!!
Sara abulaban says
Can I use whole wheat flour ??
Chocolate Covered Katie says
You can always experiment (especially if you don’t mind a dense texture), but I cannot vouch for the results. But please report back if you do experiment!
Helen says
I’m in love with your recipes! Thank you!
Candice says
I’m looking for a healthy lemon cake for my daughter’s 5th birthday. Will this work, or is it too crumbly?
Unofficial CCK Helper says
It is very light and moist, not at all crumbly! Maybe try doubling the recipe for a cake pan? If you try something, be sure to report back. This is one of my favorites 🙂
lovetobake says
The flavor was great. I didn’t use oil and used the extra yougurt.
Liane says
Katie, you are the Goodie Goddess! Making these bad boys soon.
Sophie says
looks amazing !
Could you substitute the sugar for apple sauce?
Dana says
How much Greek yogurt should I use if I don’t opt for oil?
Val says
I’ve made this as cupcakes twice now, and both times I’ve had trouble with it rising. I’ve followed the recipe exactly (although I’ve used Greek style yogurt both times.) Any idea what might be going wrong?
Tasted delicious either way though!
Unofficial CCK Helper says
It’s not meant to be cupcakes. Bread is denser than cupcakes, especially cake breads. This is why your cupcakes did not rise; the recipe is not meant to be cupcakes.
SL says
Did you mean baking powder instead of baking soda?
Rachel says
This was incredible, thank you!!!
Sue says
I made this with Arrowhead Mills GF flour, mostly coconut yogurt (I made up the difference with dairy) and coconut palm sugar. It tasted great but the texture was more like pudding than cake. Maybe it was the flour. I plan on experimenting with different flours, maybe adding a little coconut flour to absorb some of the moisture.
Iga says
Hi, it looks so delicious! Thanks for sharing. Is the result will be fine if I don’t use yogurt? What’s for substitute? Thank you!
Jana says
Although I am not familiar with the Starbucks original, I made it cos it just looks perfect. And I must admit that the result was so surprisingly moist, dense, yet fluffy and full of flavor. Will definitely be doing this again.
Thank you for all your recipes, Katie, the ones I’ve tried were always amazing!
april says
hi, I am going to make this tonight….. but all I have is a 5×9 loaf pan, no 8…. hope it will work out all right.
Christina says
Hi, sorry to be a pain, but I’m based in the UK.
By baking soda do you mean baking powder or bicarbonate soda?
(Baking powder is bicarbonate soda plus cream of tartar)
Victoria says
Baking soda in the US is just sodium bicarbonate
Sam (my friends call me Samta!) says
Hello and hugs from the UK – you are a celebrity in our house and my wife squeals when I get your awesome cookbook out because she know something delicious is heading her way – thank you for all the time you spend on perfecting these recipes for us all!
I was VERY excited to see this recipe as my Mum loves the Starbucks lemon cake and I am delighted to be able to now make a healthier one for her as a surprise!
Rosie says
Is it plain flour or self raising?
Sarah says
Making this now!
Victoria says
I love anything lemon, esp Starbucks lemon loaf! But I agree with previous poster that this healthy version actually tastes even better -amazing! It is much more lemony, with a great sweet and sour combo that the sbux version doesn’t have. It is very dense and doesn’t taste lower fat at all (I made with the regular amount of oil and sugar). I don’t think the icing was necessary but was a nice extra for not that much add’l sugar and calories. I actually multiplied all ingredients by 1.5 and made in a 8×8 square pan. I did have to cook it a bit longer though. I think it would also be easy to triple the recipe and put in a 13x 9″ pan
giulia says
Hi! I’d love to try this recipe, but I’ve only have a 10×4 loaf pan..can you tell me the ingredients conversion for this measure?
Denisse says
Hi Katie! I just made it and it tastes BOMB!
Amanda says
Do actually zest the whole lemon? Or is there a different type of measurement?
Rashmi Primlani says
Starbucks lemon cake is my weakness, can’t wait to try these.
Seda Karaman says
This looks so good!
Jess says
Hi
Would I be able to use same measurements if I’m going to use a 28cm bundt pan? thanks 🙂
A H says
Experiment and find out! Let us know how it works, if you do.
Nina says
Hi Katie! Love your blog! I was wondering if it was at all possible to substitute lemon curd for the lemon juice? I have a big jar I need to use up! I have a sneaking suspicion that the yogurt would need to be decreased, but I would like your expert opinion!! (Pretty please??)
JenJen says
I tried this using some honey instead of the sugar.. I also used natural yoghurt. To make up the dry ingredients since I skipped sugar, I crunched up some toasted coconut flakes and put them through.
This resulted in a dense / soft cake, this would be a good dessert option… great flavour
Leeron says
I’m so excited to try this but for some reason can’t find an exact 8 by 5 loaf pan anywhere! I found 8 by 4 or a 9 by 5. Would these work you think?
A H says
Yes, but it will just rise less. You’ll have to change the bake time.
Leeron Silberberg says
What would I have to change the bake time to if I opt to use a 8 by 4 pan?
A H says
Not sure, so you’ll have to experiment. Let us know the result, if you do.
Maddie says
I made these last night with real sugar and coconut oil. They are so rich and fluffy and taste SO much better than Starbucks. Everyone in my house loved them. Thanks for all the great recipes Katie!
María says
Hi Katie,
Thanks for the recipe. Could you advise about the mesadure if we use stevia, please?
Sam says
Got mine in the oven rn. I used zero vanilla Greek yogurt and unrefined coconut oil.
Alexa C says
Was dying to try this, been vegan for nearly a year and was looking for a vegan version of one o fly favorite desserts. I did’n’t have any vegan yogurt on hand, so i blended silken tofu to a yogurt-like consistency and it worked just fine. Loved it!
Sophie says
This looks perfect for Slimming World members! Could I use agave instead of sugar or would that be too much liquid? Can’t wait to make this! 😀
Mel says
I needed to make a dairy-free cake and couldn’t use a soy substitute for the yoghurt either, so I used unsweetened applesauce instead and it worked a treat.
Jessica Nuttall says
I used oat flour instead of white or gf flour, and I don’t think the cake turned out well. It was very dense. Definitely going to try with white flour next time!
Hana says
I halfed the amount of lemon juice and decreased the amount of sugar to 1/3 of a cup and it turned out amazing! Unbelievably fluffy and light. This recipe’s definitely going to stick.
Rhonda Brotherton says
Has anyone tried Oat Flour?
Kat says
I’ve made this in a loaf pan with bottled lemon juice and there was a slight bitter flavor.
Today I wanted to try my mini donut maker with all fresh squeezed lemon juice. The flavor was really good, no bitterness; however my mini donut maker was way too hot and burned them, or they were too tender to remove in one piece if in for less time.
Great recipe overall! Just don’t use bottled lemon juice!
Anna says
This looks yum! Is it possible to use maple syrup instead of sugar? Since it’s more liquid, do you know how would you adjust the quantities?
Megan F says
Just tried making this, and it’s delicious! Thank you for the recipe!!
Lauren says
I used an 8 inch round pan and it came out pretty good, and fluffy. I imagine it would be fluffier if I had the right size loaf pan. It tasted like a sponge cake, thanks for the recipe.
Preya says
Made this and it’s great. Did double the recipe ( had to squeeze a lot of lemons! ) Found it a little denser than other cakes I make without eggs. Can u add eggs to solve this and does doubling the recipe make it trickier? Thanks
Gloria says
Sounds delish and I want to make this. My question is if I use sweetened yogurt, do I decrease the amount of sugar? If so, how much? If I use regular unsweetened sugar, can I decrease the sugar by
1/4 cup? I will have to use regular white sugar.
Thanks!
Jason Sanford says
Keep the sugar the same. It will be delicious still and will hold its shape because the sugar adds the right amount of bulk.
Joy says
Hi!! do you think it will be a good idea to add poppy seeds? 🙂
Javonni says
I just loved this! Do you think I should cut some liquid if I add blueberries?
Hafsa says
Looking forward to trying this, but do you think I could substitute the spelt flour for almond flour ?
Jason Sanford says
Be sure to report back if you experiment!
dot says
can you use whole wheat white flour to make cake
Amber says
I’d like to note, USE THE CORRECT SIZE PAN!! I never read a recipe through to the very end and I should have. Wrong size pan will yield you a one inch loaf. I have 3 9×5 loaf pans, why do I have 3 9x5s!?!???
C.L. says
would this work with oat flour?
Jason Sanford says
Probably will be really dense but have a nice flavor.
Michelle M says
I am following the Weight Watchers Freestyle program and love that you give the points in the nutritional facts, but I do have one question? Are the facts and points for this recipe based off you using the xylitol or the sugar and does it included the glaze?
Michelle M says
I found the answer to my question. Should have scrolled down more…lol 🙂
Daniel says
How much stevia should I use if I want to use stevia?
Kathryn Sverchek says
How can I make it gluten free?
Kathryn Sverchek says
Can I use coconut flour ?
Jason Sanford says
You might try Bob’s gf all purpose gluten free flour. I haven’t tried it here so can’t say if it will work, but I’ve had a lot of success using that flour in other recipes and I know Katie has as well.
Ross Macfarlane says
Looks yummy – am gonna cook this with Cookt – Looking forward to it 🙂
Veronica Duchenne says
This was excellent!!! I added some chopped dried pears and some fun sprinkles on top. I will be putting these in my son’s lunch. Thank you!
Rosemary Martin says
I don’t know if I already said this, but I doubled the cake and added fresh blueberries. My hubby and I couldn’t get enough of this cake! He took some to a coworker and even though he’s not vegan, YUM!
Basak says
Hi
İs the glaze adding a lot to the taste? How would itbe if i skip it?
Laura says
I noticed there is no baking powder in this recipe
alaina says
I just made this – absolute incredible! I added poppy seeds and used Oat flour. It did not rise at all – any suggestions as to what went wrong?! Would love to make again!
Jason Sanford says
Oat flour would make it more dense than the flours listed
Alice says
I have gf self-raising flour and gf plain flour can I use either of these?
Jason Sanford says
Unfortunately the only way to know is to experiment! Be sure to report back if you try!
Kristen says
I really enjoyed this but it came out really small, it only filled the pan maybe half way. Should I double the recipe to make a full loaf? Would I double the baking time also?
Jason Sanford says
Hmm you could definitely do that! I’d maybe look in on it after 30 minutes without opening the oven. Most loaves with 2 cups flour cook I think for around 30-45.
Alex says
I don’t have any yogurt. Am I able to use something else in pace of it?
Jason Sanford says
You never know unless you experiment! If you do end up trying something (maybe coconut cream, silken tofu, etc), definitely be sure to report back!
Jason
xx says
Hi Katie!!
I’ve been recently trying to lose weight, and your recipes are so so amazing and low in calories! I made half of this recipe into 12 tiny cupcakes – they were 20 calories each and tasted so good. Thank you for uploading great recipes ❤️
Ryan says
I have made this cake 4 times now!
April says
I converted this to a sourdough version and IT IS PERFECT!! Best thing ever!
Matija says
This is a game changer for me! Thank you!
Chinoiseries says
Loved these, thanks for the recipe! I used Greek yogurt, added 2 tsp poppy seed, used sugar not xylitol, omitted the lemon peel (no organic lemons) and made 6 regular-sized muffins. Perfect, tangy, sweet enough. Will definitely make again.
sharon says
It tasted really lemony (which I love) Could I successfully add eggs? I am not a vegan
Amanda says
I LOVE this cake with other flours I’ve used! But have you tried this with almond flour? Do you think it would be ok?
Krista says
This unfortunately didn’t rise much. Ended up being about an inch. I had it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. However, it still tasted absolutely amazing. Perfect lemon taste but not overpowering and not too sweet either. My mom said it was the best lemon cake she ever had 👍🏼
Jason Sanford says
It’s been a while since I made that one from her site, but I just made this one again last night and can confirm it rises perfectly. I think the two are similar, just this is bigger, if you want to try it sometime: https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/vegan-lemon-bread-recipe/
Ana says
No egg???? How does ir hold?
Ruby says
Does it have to be with spelt flour? What about all purpose flour?
CCK Media Team says
That works! 🙂
April says
Would love to try with another type of sweetener as my kiddos don’t like the flavor of xylitol…what about honey?
LuAnn Carson says
This lemon loaf is so good. I mixed lemon juice and powdered monk fruit for a thick tart lemon glaze. Yum!! No one knew it was healthy. Thanks for all of your delicious recipes!
Peggy says
Where can I purchase an 8″ x 5″ Loaf Pan. I live in Rochester, NY and have not been able to find this size.
Thank you
Tonia says
Hello Katie !
I just tried this recipe and although it is super yummy and delicious in flavour terms, the cake turned out very flat . It didn’t raise at all while in the oven.. I used Greek yogurt and white flour. What do you think i did wrong? Thanks!
CCK Media Team says
Hi! What size pan did you use? Also this one is supposed to make a smaller loaf… for a larger one, try this updated version that can be cooked in a standard size pan (9×5 instead of 8×5): https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/vegan-lemon-bread-recipe/
Pito says
Can i add baking powder to this recipe to make it rise a bit?
CCK Media Team says
We haven’t tried, but if you want a deeper loaf, Katie posted this revised version of the recipe a few years after the original that yields a much bigger loaf: https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/vegan-lemon-bread-recipe/
Bethy says
Thank you for this great recipe, Katie!
I’m wondering if you have tried making it using oat flour instead of the white or spelt?
judy says
This tasted really good and was very moist, but it was also very small and flat!
I used a 8 x 5 loaf pan. The top surface stayed uneven and bumpy, it didn’t rise up and smooth out like other cakes do. Is that normal?
CCK Media Team says
Hi! Not sure what could have caused the bumpiness – what flour and sweetener did you use? This does make a small loaf, and Katie revised it a few years later to make a larger (standard size) loaf if you’d prefer that one. The larger version will definitely rise: https://chocolatecoveredkatie.com/vegan-lemon-bread-recipe/
Izzi says
I just have to tell you this is one of my favorite recipes! I’ve made it about a zillion times and love that it’s not overloaded with sugar and fat. And the fact that it is a small loaf is one of the best things about it, so when I make it, it’s really a treat. Thanks for such a super recipe!
CCK Media Team says
This makes us so happy, thank you 🙂