Vegan Brown Sugar Cookies

1 In a large mixing bowl, add the vegan butter and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until fully combined and fluffy. 
2 Now add the applesauce and vanilla. Continue to beat until everything is combined. Set aside.
3 In a medium sized mixing bowl, sift the flour and baking soda. Stir in the salt. 
4 Add the dry ingredients to the wet a little at a time. Continuing to mix, until everything is combined and the dough comes together. It may seem crumbly as you mix, but it will be perfect once fully combined. 
5 Divide the dough in half, and flatten each piece into a disk. Wrap each in parchment paper and put in the fridge. Chill for at least 1 hour. 
6 When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350 degrees(F). 
7 Take one disk at a time and place on a generously floured surface. Sprinkle the top with more flour and spread some flour on a rolling pin. Roll out, starting from the center and working your way out to about 1/4 inch thick.
8 Cut into any shape you want, place each cookie on a baking sheet about an inch apart. Bring all the scraps of dough back together and form another dough ball, flatten out and chill again to make more cookies with.
9 Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until firm. Repeat with all the dough.
10 Cool completely, then make the frosting.
11 In a large mixing bowl, beat together the vegan butter and vegetable shortening. Then add the powdered sugar a little at a time. Beating until all the sugar is incorporated. Add the vanilla and salt. Beat again to combine. 
12 Spread the frosting on the cookies and top with sprinkles if desired.