In a large bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl use a fork to combine egg, milk, and applesauce.
Add egg mixture all at once to flour mixture. Stir just until moistened (batter should be slightly lumpy). Stir in cottage cheese, vanilla, and maple syrup.
Pour about 1/4 cup batter onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or heavy skillet, spreading batter if necessary.
After batter is spread, cover with chopped bacon, then flip. Cook over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until pancakes are golden brown, turning to second sides when pancakes have bubbly surfaces and edges are slightly dry. Serve warm, topped with more bacon and syrup.