Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper hanging over the edges (for easy cake removal later).

Step 2

In a medium-large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, cornstarch, ground ginger, baking powder, and salt until combined.

Step 3

In a separate large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the vegan butter at medium-high speed. This should take 2-3 minutes to become light and fluffy. (Make sure to use room temperature butter, not too warm).

Step 4

Once fluffy, add the cane sugar, vanilla extract, and butter extract to the bowl. Mix on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 5

While mixing on medium speed, add the applesauce to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl as necessary.

Step 6

Add the dry ingredients to the bowl and mix on low speed until just barely combined (it is okay to see a few flour specks left here). Add in the unsweetened plant milk and continue mixing on low speed until a smooth cake batter forms. Be careful not to over mix.

Step 7

Pour the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a rubber spatula or spoon to spread the batter evenly throughout the pan and into the corners. You can give the pan a very gentle side-to-side shake to level the batter (but do not be aggressive or you will break the air bubbles in the cake).

Step 8

Bake the pound cake for 55-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The edges should be slightly golden brown and the center should be cooked through. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20-30 minutes after removing it from the oven so it sets up properly.

Step 9

Once the cake has cooled, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the cake out of the pan. Use a knife to gently loosen the cake from the edges of the pan without parchment paper if necessary. Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding toppings (especially glaze or whipped cream).

Step 10

Top the cake with fresh berries, vegan powdered sugar, coconut whipped cream, lemon glaze, or enjoy plain. Slice and serve!