Preheat the Oven:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, stirring until everything is well combined.

Mix in the Dry Ingredients:

Step 3: Incorporate the oats into the banana mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Gradually add the almond milk to moisten the mixture, adjusting the amount as needed to get a thick but pliable consistency.

Add the Extras:

Step 4: Fold in your choice of raisins or nuts along with the dark chocolate chunks, ensuring these extras are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Form the Cookies:

Step 5: Scoop portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon to form a round shape.

Bake the Cookies:

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are firm and lightly golden on the edges.

Cool and Enjoy:

Step 7: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they set properly and maintain their texture.

Variation

For a different twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping the raisins for dried cranberries or blueberries for a tangy flavor.