Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almond butter, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Add the baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to the mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.
If using, fold in the chocolate chips gently.
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.