Begin by pulsing your chosen nuts—almonds, walnuts, or pecans—in a food processor until finely chopped and crumbly, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Add the pitted Medjool dates and pulse until they form a cohesive, sticky dough, about 20 to 30 seconds.

Incorporate the cocoa powder and oats into the blended date mixture and pulse again for about 30 seconds until combined.

If using nut butter, add it along with a splash of vanilla extract and blend for another 20 to 30 seconds.

Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.

Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.