Place 1 cup pitted dates in the bowl of a food processor fitted with an S blade. Process until the dates break down and form a sticky ball, stopping to scrape down the bowl if needed.
Add 1/2 cup all-natural peanut butter (or almond butter), 1/4 cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons ground flax or chia seeds, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Process until the mixture becomes crumbly and comes together when pressed, up to about 2 minutes. Stop and scrape the bowl as needed.
Test the mixture by pressing a small amount between your fingers. If it is too moist to hold its shape, add 1–2 tablespoons more rolled oats or 1–2 tablespoons more ground flax/chia and pulse until combined. If it is too dry and won’t stick, add 1–2 tablespoons more nut butter and process again.
Use a tablespoon to scoop portions of the dough, then roll each portion between your hands to form balls. Place the balls on a lined plate or baking sheet.
Refrigerate the balls for about 1 hour to firm up, or eat them right away if you prefer.
Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.