Add everything (except the toppings) to a food processor or blender and process until smooth.
Transfer to a shallow dish, and add some chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts, if using and place in the freezer for one hour.
Remove from the freezer and give your ice cream a good mix, especially around the edges as that will freeze first. Return to the freezer for one more hour. Then serve topped with more chocolate chips and nuts, if you'd like, and enjoy.
Notes
If your dates are very dry (happens if they've been sitting in your pantry a while), soak them in cool water for 15-20 minutes and then drain, before adding to your blender or food processor.For smoothest results, use a high speed food processor or blender.Tastes best when consumed within 2-3 hours of freezing. However, you may keep frozen in an airtight, freezer safe container for up to 3 months. Place a sheet of plastic wrap on top of your nice cream, before sealing the lid to prevent freezer burn.Once frozen overnight, the nice cream will freeze solid. Remove from the freezer 15-20 minutes before you plan to enjoy, to make scooping easier.