Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2: Grease your 9x9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, applesauce or yogurt, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the flour, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in the chocolate chips gently into the batter.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.
Step 8: Let cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely and slice into squares.