Chewy Applesauce and Peanut Butter Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda; set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine crunchy peanut butter, brown sugar, egg whites, and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well blended and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

Stir the applesauce into the peanut butter mixture until fully incorporated.

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined; do not overmix.

Drop spoonfuls of dough (about 1½ tablespoons each) onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still appear slightly soft and chewy.

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.