preheat over to 350 degrees. line 8x8 pan with parchment and spray with PAM olive oil. in small bowl add syrup and cocoa powder, whisk until blended. in another small bowl add flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. whisk until blended. in large bowl whisk applesauce, oil, egg, and vanilla til combined. whisk in syrup and chocolate mixture til smooth. add flour mixture, stir until flour is incorporated, stir in chocolate chips. pour into prepared pan, spread out evenly. bake until surface looks dry around the edges and a toothpick in the center comes out clean, apx 25 minutes don''t overcook. cool on wire rack 30 minutes. remove from pan and cut into 16 squares.
