Add the pitted Medjool dates to a food processor and pulse for 30 to 45 seconds until they form a thick, sticky paste.

Add the dried cherries, rolled oats, cacao powder, almond butter, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and sea salt to the processor.

Pulse in short bursts, 8 to 10 pulses, until the mixture comes together and holds when pressed between your fingers. It should look like a coarse, dark dough, not smooth.

If the mixture feels too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water and pulse again. If it's too wet and sticky to handle, refrigerate for 10 minutes.

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop or your hands to portion the mixture into 18 equal pieces.

Lightly wet your palms and roll each portion into a smooth ball.

Optional: roll each ball in a small bowl of cacao powder until lightly coated for a drier finish.

Place the finished bites on the prepared sheet and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before eating to let them firm up.