The Starbucks Iced Lemon Loaf is a fan-favorite pastry, known for its bright citrus flavor and sweet, sugary glaze. This moist and buttery loaf is made with real lemon zest, eggs, and butter, delivering a rich yet refreshing taste. Perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, the Iced Lemon Loaf pairs exceptionally well with Starbucks’ coffee or tea offerings.
However, with 450 calories per serving, this indulgence is on the higher side when it comes to calorie count. Let’s break down its ingredients, nutritional content, and allergens to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Ingredients in the Iced Lemon Loaf
This loaf is crafted with high-quality ingredients to achieve its signature moistness and citrusy flavor. Here’s what goes into it:
- Enriched Wheat Flour – A refined flour fortified with vitamins and minerals.
- Sugar & Powdered Sugar – Sweetens both the loaf and the icing.
- Eggs & Butter – Provide richness and a soft texture.
- Buttermilk – Enhances moisture and adds a slight tang.
- Lemon Juice & Lemon Zest – Infuses natural citrus flavor.
- Soybean & Palm Oil – Contribute to the loaf’s tenderness.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Help the loaf rise for a light and fluffy texture.
- Natural Flavor & Beta Carotene – Add depth to the lemony taste and natural color.
The icing is a simple but effective combination of powdered sugar and lemon flavor, making it the perfect finishing touch to this citrusy delight.
Nutritional Breakdown
If you’re keeping track of your intake, here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 | — |
| Calories from Fat | 170 | — |
| Total Fat | 19g | 24% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 0.5g | — |
| Cholesterol | 100mg | 33% |
| Sodium | 300mg | 13% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 64g | 23% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugars | 39g | — |
| Protein | 6g | — |
(*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.)
With 450 calories, this loaf is one of the more calorie-dense pastries at Starbucks, surpassing the Banana Walnut & Pecan Loaf (410 calories) and Chocolate Chip Cookie (370 calories).
The 39g of sugar makes it quite sweet, and the 9g of saturated fat (45% of the daily recommended intake) contributes to its rich, buttery texture. However, it does contain 6g of protein, which may help with satiety.
Allergen Information
If you have food allergies, here’s what you need to know:
✅ Contains: Milk, Wheat, Soy, Egg
❌ Does not contain: Peanuts, Tree Nuts (but cross-contamination may occur)
Since this loaf contains dairy, wheat, and soy, it is not suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets. Those with soy allergies should also take caution.
Is the Iced Lemon Loaf a Healthy Choice?
The Starbucks Iced Lemon Loaf is an indulgent pastry, best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday snack.
- High in Calories & Sugar – At 450 calories and 39g of sugar, this loaf is on the higher end of Starbucks’ pastry options in terms of caloric intake.
- Moderate Protein – With 6g of protein, it offers a bit more satiety than some other desserts.
- Rich in Flavor – The real lemon zest and moist texture make this a standout choice for lemon lovers.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider:
✔️ Petite Vanilla Bean Scone (130 calories) – A smaller treat with vanilla flavor.
✔️ Kind Bar (200 calories) – A nut-based snack with lower sugar content.
✔️ Egg Bites (170-300 calories) – A high-protein, lower-carb alternative.
For balance, pair this loaf with a low-calorie drink like:
- Black coffee or Americano (0 calories)
- Cold brew with a splash of milk (30-50 calories)
- Unsweetened iced tea (0 calories)