As soon as summer hits, I feel a serious need to be at the beach as much as possible. And if I can't actually be at the beach, I find all kinds of ways to bring the beach to me — even if I'm stuck inside in the middle of the city. Bringing those tropical vibes to the mainland can mean anything from breezy floral mini dresses to refreshing fruit cocktails, backyard barbecues, and so much more. But the best way to fake it 'til you make it is with something ultra sensory. Enter: DIY acai bowls.
Acai bowls originated in Brazil but have made their way stateside for obvious reasons. Super tasty, healthy, refreshing, and full of antioxidants, acai bowls make the ultimate breakfast. Plus, the topping options are virtually endless. Fresh summer fruit, your favorite type of granola, chia seeds, coconut flakes, almond butter, honey, and nuts all make excellent choices, and work in pretty much any combination. In partnership with Havaianas, I'm going to show you just how easy it is to DIY your own acai bowls at home. Your favorite summer breakfast (and snack, and lunch, and maybe dinner?) awaits.
What You'll Need
- Frozen acai berry puree
- Bananas
- Coconut milk
- Assorted dry toppings of your choice. I used toasted coconut flakes, granola, sliced almonds, and chia seeds.
- Assorted fruit of your choice. I used raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, mango, and banana.
- Honey, optional
1. Blend Your Smoothie
For each bowl, use two packets of frozen acai puree, one banana, and 1/4 cup coconut milk.
Break up frozen acai puree in a blender. Add banana and coconut milk and pulse until blended. Your mixture should be the consistency of a very thick smoothie.
Immediately transfer smoothie to large bowl with room for toppings.
2. Prepare Your Toppings
Top your acai mixture with any combination of toppings you like, including seasonal fruit ...
And nuts, granola, or your other favorite dry add-ons.
3. Construct Your Bowls!
Now it's time to get creative and arrange your favorite flavors into mini works of art!
Mix kiwi, banana, chia seeds, and blueberries for a taste of island life.
If you love a blend of tart and sweet, try this refreshing bowl topped with strawberries, raspberries, mango, granola, coconut flakes, and a honey drizzle.
Add more berry goodness to your already antioxidant-rich acai base with a beautiful pattern of raspberries, blueberries, sliced almonds, and chia seeds.
This post is sponsored by Havaianas.
Photography: Lauren Perlstein; Art Direction, Food & Prop Styling: Jenna Wexler
