Cook and stir dates, sugar, and margarine in a large saucepan over low heat until sugar dissolves; remove from heat. Fold crispy rice cereal, pecans, and vanilla extract into the date mixture until evenly mixed.
Grease your hands with margarine. Roll date mixture into 1-inch balls.
Spread confectioners' sugar into a shallow dish; roll date balls in confectioners' sugar to coat.
