I use Medjool dates that are soft and on the larger side. If your dates are on the dry or firm side, soak them in hot water for 30 minutes or so. If they're small you may need to add a few more to the recipe.Don't forget to take the pits out of the dates!You can use any milk here. I just happen to have coconut milk on hand most of the time. I've also used coconut cream, but it's quite thick so I cut it in half with water to imitate coconut milk, using ½ cup of water plus ½ cup of coconut cream. Other options are almond milk, cashew milk, or any other non-dairy or dairy milk.