Remove the pits from the dates and soak in hot water for 15 minutes.
1 cup dates
Meanwhile, blend the oats in a food processor or blender until a powder forms. This can take 3-5 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl and stir in the baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Create a well in the center to prepare for the wet ingredients.
1 3/4 cups rolled oats, 2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp baking soda, 2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground nutmeg, pinch of ground cloves, 1/4 tsp salt
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch baking pan with parchment paper (or grease).
Next, add the carrots to the blender and blend until finely chopped or grated consistency. Alternatively use a grater or the grating setting on a food processor. Remove and set aside.
1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
Drain the dates then add them to the blender along with the milk, applesauce, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla. Blend until smooth. Then add it to the oat mixture and fold in until just combined. Careful not to overmix or you'll end up with a gooey cake. Gently fold in the carrots and pecans (if using) to evenly distribute without mixing the batter too much.
1 cup dates, 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk, ½ cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1 1/2 cups shredded carrots, ½ cup chopped pecans
Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake on the center rack for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake for wet batter. It may transfer some of the spices onto the toothpick but you don't want wet batter. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing and place on a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Prepare the Cashew Cream Frosting by adding all of the ingredients to a high-speed blender and processing until smooth.
2 cups raw cashews, 1/3 cup canned coconut milk, 1/3 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, pinch of salt
Frost the cake and top with additional pecans if desired. Cut into 16 pieces and serve. Enjoy!