Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheet with parchment. Tip: No parchment? Lightly grease the sheet instead.

Mash bananas in bowl until smooth with some small chunks remaining. Tip: Overripe bananas work best for natural sweetness.

Heat coconut oil in skillet over medium. Add mashed bananas and cook 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently. Tip: This caramelization step builds flavor depth.

Remove from heat, stir in vanilla, then mix in oats, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Tip: Let mixture cool slightly if too warm to handle.

Fold in walnuts if using. Scoop 2-tbsp portions onto sheet, flattening slightly. Tip: Damp hands prevent sticking when shaping.

Bake 12-14 minutes until edges are golden. Cool 5 minutes on sheet before transferring.