1. Slice each banana lengthwise into 3 strips each.
   • Look for bananas that are lightly spotted, no bruises, and straight as possible.
   • Cut WITH the curve of the banana, not against it. See photos below.
2. Place the banana slices on the mesh sheet that comes with the dehydrator.
3. Dehydrate at 145 degrees (F) for 1 hour, then reduce to 115 degrees (F)  until they are dry on the outside, yet limp enough to bend.
   • This can take 6+ hours. Set a timer and check in on them periodically.
   • If you get 3-4 slices per banana the outer slices will most likely dry faster, so you may need to pull them out sooner then the center slices.
4. Once the bananas are done, it’s time to spread some date paste on the inner side of the banana slice. You can do this one of two ways:
   • Option #1  – Piping bag. Fit a piping bag with a flat or medium sized circular tip. Load the bag with date paste. With steady and even pressure, deposit date paste all the banana slice. Do this to each banana. This method was my preference as it was simple and clean.
   • Option #2  – Spread about 1 tablespoon of date paste down the length of a banana slice with a knife or other handy tool.
5. Sprinkle with cinnamon, add raisins and crushed nuts on top of the date paste and roll.
   • If you wish to make larger cinnamon rolls, after rolling the first banana slice, line up the second banana slice to the end of the first banana slice and just keep rolling.  The date paste helps the slices stick together.
6. Prepare another piping bag that is fitted with a decorative tip and load the bag with frosting.
   • The frosting should be thick but will start to soften due to the warmth of your hands.
   • If it gets too soft, place the bag in the fridge or freezer (depending on the timing of things) and let it firm back up.
7. Once you have piped the frosting on, sprinkle crushed nuts on top.
8. You can now do any of the following:
   • Enjoy them right away!
   • Place in the fridge to enjoy later… will keep for about 5-7 days in the fridge.
   • Place in the freezer for a future function. Be sure they are well protected. Freeze for up to a month. They do get a little softer feeling once thawed, but they are still yummy.
   • If you wish to enjoy them warm, hold off on the frosting and pop them in the dehydrator for a few hours. Once warm, pipe the frosting on top and enjoy immediately.

Culinary Explanations:

• Why do I start the dehydrator at 145 degrees (F)?  Click (here) to learn the reason behind this.
• When working with fresh ingredients, it is important to taste test as you build a recipe.  Learn why (here).
• Don’t own a dehydrator? Learn how to use your oven (here). I do however truly believe that it is a worthwhile investment. Click (here) to learn what I use.