In a small bowl stir vinegar into milk and set aside to make a buttermilk substitute. The milk will curdle and look strange. Don't worry it's supposed to do that.
In another bowl combine sifted flour, baking powder, sugar of choice, salt and desired amount of chocolate chips. Be sure to mix thoroughly.
After milk has curdled warm slightly in the microwave to prevent coconut oil from hardening. You can skip this if using applesauce. Add coconut oil or applesauce and vanilla to milk and stir.
Add milk mixture to flour and stir just enough to combine. Do not over stir or pancakes will be tough.
Allow batter to rest a few minutes while skillet or electric griddle warms. Lightly oil if needed. I use the griddle set at 375 degrees and I do not add any oil to the surface.
Pour about ¼ cup of batter on hot surface of skillet or griddle. The batter should sizzle when it hits the pan. If it doesn't your skillet isn't hot enough. Cook until edges are dry and bubbles form across the middle. Flip and cook for about 2 minutes longer or until lightly browned.
Remove from skillet and keep warm in a warmed oven if desired. Serve with desired toppings such as apple slices, maple syrup, and a few extra chips.