No Bake Date Balls

2 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups dates, pitted and chopped
1 cup confectioners' sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 1/2 cups crisp rice cereal
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups flaked coconut

Using a double boiler, heat butter, chopped dates, confectioner's sugar, eggs and salt. Stir constantly until very thick, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Add crispy rice cereal, chopped walnuts, and vanilla. Mix well and form into small balls. Roll in coconut. Keep refrigerated.