Follow these simple steps to create your own amazing Carrot Cake Squares:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.

1. Grate Carrots: Use a box grater or food processor to grate the carrots until you have about 3 cups.

1. Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

1. Add Carrots: Fold in the grated carrots and chopped nuts, if using, until evenly distributed.

1. Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.

1. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The squares are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

1. Cool: Once baked, allow the squares to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Prepare Frosting: If desired, make the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy. Adjust with milk for desired consistency.

1. Frost: Once cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top of the Carrot Cake Squares. Cut into squares to serve.