Fill a glass container with very hot water. I heat about 2 cups in the microwave for about 1 ½ minutes.
Add dates to water, cover with plastic wrap and set aside for 5-10 minutes. This step softens the dates and makes them easier to puree, but may not be necessary if dates are very soft.
Remove dates from water and place in a small food processor.
Add 1 Tablespoon of the water the dates soaked in to the food processor.
Pulse until smooth, scraping down sides as necessary. Add additional water to thin the consistency of the paste, if desired.
Set date paste aside.
Combine cream cheese, date paste and vanilla extract in a small bowl with beaters. Measure out ½ cup of frosting mixture.
Combine oatmeal, carrot shreds, coconut flakes, raisins, and cinnamon in a medium-sized bowl. Set aside.
Add frosting to the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
Refrigerate the dough for about 15 minutes if possible so the batter is easier to work with.