Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F. Spray one 9×5-inch loaf pan with floured cooking spray, or grease and flour the pan; set aside. (I haven’t tried the recipe in an 8×4-inch pan and cannot comment on how long it will take to bake, but use an 8×4 pan if you prefer a taller loaf.)

Step 2

In a large bowl, add the the first eight ingredients, through nutmeg, and whisk to combine.

Step 3

Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, optional salt, and fold with spatula or stir gently with a spoon until just combined; don’t overmix.

Step 4

Add the carrots, apples, and fold gently to combine.

Step 5

Turn batter (it’s very thick, this is what you want) out into the prepared pan, smoothing the top lightly with a spatula.

Step 6

Bake for about 45 to 52 minutes (I baked 50 minutes) or until the top is golden, the center is set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter.*

Step 7

Allow bread to cool in pan for about 15 minutes before turning out on a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.**