Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
• In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
• Fold in the grated carrots and optional nuts.
• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
• While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.