Deep Chocolate Mint Frosted Cake

2 cups unbleached flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup water; cold
1/2 cup applesauce; room temperature
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
7 egg whites; whipped
Mint candies

Frosting:
3 cups whipping cream; chilled
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; sifted
3/4 cup cocoa powder; sifted
1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Prepare pan(s) with cooking spray and flour. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking powder and salt. In another mixing bowl, combine water, applesauce, peppermint extract, egg whites. Divide batter between prepared pan(s). Bake until top springs back when touched lightly, about 50 to 55 minutes depending on pan size.