Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them into the dough.

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

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