Creating Fruit and Nut Energy Balls is simple when you follow these easy steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients on your kitchen counter.
2. Soak Dates (optional): If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften. Drain before using.
3. Process Nuts: In a food processor, add mixed nuts and pulse until coarsely chopped but not a fine powder.
4. Add Dates: Add the pitted dates to the food processor, mixing until the mixture resembles a sticky dough.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until everything is well combined.
6. Dried Fruit: Add the dried fruit and pulse a few more times until well integrated into the mixture.
7. Form Balls: Remove the mixture from the processor and roll it into small balls, around 1 inch in diameter.
8. Coat (optional): If desired, roll the balls in seeds or chocolate chips for extra flavor and nutrition.
9. Chill: Place the energy balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
10. Serve and Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.