Step 1

Place the dates, milk, and vanilla into a small bowl, and set aside for at least 15 minutes (so the dates can soften).

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 3

Grind the rolled oats into flour with a blender. Transfer to a medium bowl and whisk in the pumpkin pie spice.

Step 4

Pour the soaking ingredients (dates, milk, and vanilla) into the blender, and blend until smooth.

Step 5

Pour this mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, and add the pumpkin. Mix the batter with an electric mixer until it is thick but smooth. (If you don’t have an electric mixer, you can use a food processor or a blender along with its tamper.)

Step 6

Spoon the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes. Let cool completely before serving (or chill overnight for firmer snack bars). Serve as is or with Vanilla Frosting.