In a large bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and caster sugar.
Whisk the buttermilk, eggs, oil/butter and vanilla together in a mixing jug or separate bowl then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Mix until the batter is smooth then add the chocolate chips and fold in.
Heat a large, non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
Drop spoonfuls of batter into the warm pan and allow to cook for 1-2 minutes, or until small bubbles start to form on the surface of the pancakes and the edges turn matte.
Carefully flip the pancakes over with a spatula. Cook for another minute until golden brown on both sides then remove from the pan.
Repeat with the remaining batter.
Stack the pancakes on a serving plate then add a pat of butter.
Pour over maple syrup and serve as is or with fresh fruit of your choice.