Preheat oven to 180°C and bring a full kettle to the boil.
Prep carrot. Place flour, baking powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves in a large bowl. Add milk, butter/oil and grated carrots and use a spatula to stir together, until no dry bits remain. Transfer to a baking dish (about 23cm square).
Sprinkle brown sugar and nuts (if using) over the top of the batter evenly. Pour boiling water onto a metal spoon over the batter. Place on a baking tray and bake for 40-50 minutes or once the middle is set.
Serve with your favourite ice cream, cream or yoghurt.