Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mash the ripe banana in a mixing bowl until smooth.

Combine the granulated sugar and melted butter into the banana mixture. Stir until well blended, adding vanilla extract if using.

Whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl.

Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Fold in any add-ins such as walnuts or mini chocolate chips.

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden, then let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

(Optional) Sprinkle with a dash of sea salt before serving.