Step 1

Preheat oven to 350F (180C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a small saucepan, whisk the banana, water, cocoa powder, sugar, nut butter, and (optional) salt until blended. Bring to a low boil, whisking, over medium-high heat; boil 1 minute longer.

Step 3

Remove pan from heat and stir in (optional) vanilla and oats. Let stand for 5 minutes. Stir in the baking soda until completely blended.

Step 4

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, scoop the dough into 12 equal mounds onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Sprinkle tops of cookies with a few chocolate chips.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes until surface of cookies appears dry.

Step 6

Transfer cookies from sheet to a cooling rack and cool completely.