1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. Place chopped dates in warm water and soak for 10 minutes. Drain well.

3. Add rolled oats to a blender or food processor and blend into a coarse oat flour.

4. In a large mixing bowl combine mashed bananas, eggs, cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract.

5. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

6. Add oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

7. Stir gently until no dry spots remain.

8. Fold in softened dates and any optional add-ins such as walnuts, chocolate chips, chia seeds, or flaxseed.

9. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

10. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

11. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

12. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.