In a small bowl or medium saucepan, whisk together the water and cocoa powder until smooth and dissolved. This is your chocolate base that will enhance the flavor of your oats. Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth mixture will result in a creamy texture.
Next, in a medium saucepan, combine the cocoa mixture with the remaining water, milk, maple syrup, and a dash of salt. Heat this mixture over medium-high heat, stirring often, until it reaches a light boil. The bubbling is a sign that the ingredients are marrying beautifully.
Once you see those lovely bubbles, reduce the heat to low and stir in the oats. This is where the magic happens! You'll want to simmer the mixture while stirring frequently. For quick-cooking oats, this should take about 1 to 3 minutes. If you're using old-fashioned oats, give it about 5 to 10 minutes until they are thickened and tender.
Remove the chocolate oatmeal from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds depth and enhances the chocolate flavor even further. This step is essential for achieving that comforting aroma.
Finally, serve your Chocolate Oatmeal hot, topped with marshmallows if desired. Let them sit on top for a moment to melt slightly, creating a gooey, sweet topping that elevates your breakfast experience.
