Step 1

In a mixing bowl, combine oats and water. Set aside on the counter to soak for 2-3 hours, until oats have softened.

Step 2

To a high speed blender jar, add oats with the water, dates, and salt. Blend at highest speed until smooth. Leave mixture in blender jar and set aside. Add extra water or dairy free milk as needed to reach a thick milk consistency.

Step 3

Finely chop chocolate and add to a double boiler or small saucepan. Heat chocolate on low heat, stirring continually, until completely melted. Remove from heat, allow to cool slightly but not solidify.

Step 4

Turning blender on low, slowly add cooled chocolate and vodka if using. Once chocolate is added, blend on high once more.

Step 5

Allow mixture to cool before adding to ice cream maker.

Step 6

Proceed using ice cream machine instructions (mine took 18 minutes).

Step 7

This gets to soft ice cream consistency in a machine, then takes several hours to set in the freezer.