Then, you can use apple sauce instead of eggs to get a less compact effect (I got that trick from a recipe book that includes vegan options, though I'm meat eater, I like to be able to diversify), and soak the dates in boiling water for a bit. Then use a whisker to smoosh the dates up, slowly at first, then they'll get softer. I never use a machine with my dates. Enough water to cover them completely. Your dates will be your sweatener, so to that you can add the other ingredients and you've got yourself a date loaf :p