Line a plate or a small tray with parchment, wax paper, or a silicone mat.

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the dates, salted peanuts, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla bean paste. Process until a sticky dough forms. (Dough will look “crumbly” with visible pieces of dates and nuts, not perfectly smooth.)

Scoop mixture into a medium bowl.

With your hands, divide date mixture into portions. You should have approximately 9-10 portions total. Roll each portion into a smooth ball.

Roll each ball in shredded coconut.

Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Refrigerate leftover date balls in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.