Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease a 9x13-inch pan.
2
In large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
3
Melt the butter, and add the brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly. Add the applesauce. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla. Add the flour mixture, then the chocolate chips. Scoop the batter into the pan.
4
Bake the bars for 30 to 35 minutes, until their top is shiny and golden. Do''t overbake, or the bars will be dry; a cake tester iserted in the center will not come out clean. Remove the bars from the oven, and allow them to cool to room temperature before cutting. Yield 24 bars.
