Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake

### Instructions:

**Step 1: Preheat and prepare the pan**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

**Step 2: Prepare the dry ingredients**
– In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir to combine the dry ingredients evenly.

**Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, applesauce (or grated apple), oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and fully combined.

**Step 4: Combine the wet and dry ingredients**
– Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
– Gently fold in the grated carrots, chopped apple, and nuts (if using).

**Step 5: Bake the cake**
– Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
– Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch.

**Step 6: Cool and serve**
– Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
– Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

### Tips for Success:
– **Adjust sweetness:** If you prefer a sweeter cake, feel free to add a little more brown sugar or maple syrup. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, the natural sweetness of the apples and carrots should provide enough flavor on their own.
– **Add-ins:** This recipe is versatile, so feel free to add in extras like raisins, dried cranberries, or even coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.
– **Make it dairy-free:** To make this cake dairy-free, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and use a plant-based oil like coconut or avocado oil.

### Why You’ll Love This Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake:
– **Healthy ingredients:** Packed with fiber from the oats, carrots, and apples, this cake is a wholesome treat that provides both nutrition and satisfaction. It’s a great way to enjoy something sweet while sneaking in some veggies and fruit.
– **Moist and flavorful:** The combination of applesauce, grated carrots, and apple pieces keeps the cake moist and tender, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring out a warm, cozy flavor.
– **Versatile:** This cake can be enjoyed as a breakfast item, a midday snack, or even as a light dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
– **Customizable:** With so many ways to adapt this recipe to your tastes (such as using whole wheat flour, swapping sugar for natural sweeteners, or adding extra fruits or nuts), it’s easy to make this cake your own.

*Carrot and Apple Oatmeal Cake* is a perfect treat for those looking to enjoy a delicious, guilt-free dessert or snack. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and wholesome flavors, and with its hearty ingredients, it’s filling enough to keep you satisfied for hours. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, a family gathering, or just as an afternoon snack, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!