Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter, oil, or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This dry mixture will be the foundation of your bread, providing structure and flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. You can use melted coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a slightly richer flavor and a touch of coconut essence. If you’re making a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, left to sit for 5 minutes).

Step 4: Add the Grated Apples and Carrots

To the wet mixture, fold in the grated apple and grated carrots. These will add natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, keeping it soft and tender without needing too much added fat or sugar.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense. The batter should be thick but not dry.

Step 6: Fold in the Walnuts and Optional Add-Ins

Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re adding raisins, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or any other extras, fold them in now as well.

Step 7: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. You can sprinkle a few extra walnuts on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top of the bread should be golden brown and set.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once the bread is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!