Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 in square baking dish and set aside.

In a large bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. Mix well.

In a medium bowl combine the butter, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla. Mix with a mixer until smooth.

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

Fold in the pecans and chocolate chips.

Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes. Remove from oven and cool completely.

To make the frosting put all ingredients in a bowl and mix with a mixer on medium speed until fluffy.

Spread the frosting over top of the cake. Allow to sit for 1 hour before cutting into squares.