Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk. Mix well until smooth.

Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

If using walnuts or raisins, gently fold them into the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.