Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

Fold in the vanilla pudding mix and chocolate chips if using.

Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.