Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step will help prevent your cookies from sticking and make cleanup effortless.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, maple syrup, egg (or flax egg), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything until well combined and smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if using), baking soda, and sea salt. This helps to ensure that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Gently fold in the old-fashioned oats and chocolate chips. This will add texture and a delightful chocolatey flavor to each bite.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie for an extra burst of flavor.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; that’s okay! They will firm up as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store them for later!