Rehydrate dates in hot water for about 10 minutes, drain.
Add dates, almond butter, pecans, pure vanilla extract, chia seeds, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt to food processor.
Process until a thick batter forms. You might need to scrape the sides a couple times. If the batter does not come together and seems crumbly then add 1 tablespoon of water and process. 1 tablespoon of water should be fine but if you need more then add enough until the batter comes together.
Place the batter in the refrigerator for 1 hour or until the batter is firm enough to roll into balls.
Roll into 20 balls and refrigerate.