01 -  Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. 
 02 -  In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. 
 03 -  In a separate bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. 
 04 -  Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined without overmixing. 
 05 -  Gently fold in the grated carrots, raisins, and nuts, distributing evenly throughout the batter. 
 06 -  Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly with a spatula. 
 07 -  Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. 
 08 -  Allow bars to fully cool in the pan on a wire rack. Lift out using the parchment edges and cut neatly into 12 equal bars.