Follow these straightforward steps to create your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal:

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or lightly coat with oil.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Add Carrots: Fold in the shredded carrots, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well incorporated.
7. Add Nuts and Raisins: If using, fold in the nuts and raisins, mixing until evenly distributed within the batter.
8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until set and golden brown on top.
10. Cool: Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a warm and comforting serving of Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal!