Preheat oven to 350. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add applesauce and vanilla and mix until evenly combined. In a separate bowl combine all dry ingredients and mix until evenly combined. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir together. On a parchment paper lined baking sheet, divide cookie dough into 12 heaping tablespoons. Make sure there is ample space between the cookies. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack!