Pumpkin Bars

1 15 oz. can white beans, drained
one half of a 15 oz. can pure pumpkin (freeze other half for next time)
2 ripe bananas
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup dates
2 Tablespoons peanut butter
1 Tablespoon pumpkin pie spice*
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup walnut pieces (optional)

Mix all ingredients except optional walnuts in a food processor until well blended. Stir in nuts. Pour into 8" or 9" square baking dish lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350f degrees for 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Allow to cool, then store in refrigerator. Flavor improves overnight, so bake a day before serving if possible.

*Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

Variation: Add 2 Tablespoons cocoa powder for chocolate-pumpkin bars.