Combine the peanut butter, syrup, applesauce in a mixing bowl and cream together with a large fork. The mixture should be fairly well blended, but don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth.
In a larger bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture and stir together until completely blended.
Work the granola into the batter, followed by the chocolate chips, if using.
Scoop the batter onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in rounded tablespoonfuls. Sprinkle extra granola on top, then flatten gently with the bottom of a glass (or your palm).
Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cookies are golden on top and lightly browned on the bottom.
Let stand for a few minutes after removing from the oven, then transfer to a plate. Store any not immediately eaten in an airtight container.