Adding the chocolate chips is optional. I buy carob chocolate chips from Chatfield (available at Sprouts) because they are caffeine-free, wheat-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and peanut and tree nut free. If you are on the AIP Diet, please make sure to use coconut flour in place of almond flour. As with any of my recipes, please use alternative options so that it is customized to your unique dietary needs so as not to increase intersitial cystitis sypmtoms. These paleo pumpkin pancakes are quick, easy to make, moist, and 100% delicious!