
How to Make Cannabis Infusions: A Complete Guide to Cannabis-Infused Oils and Butters
Are you ready to elevate your culinary experience with cannabis? Making cannabis-infused oils and butters is an easy and rewarding way to incorporate the benefits of cannabis into your favorite recipes. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create your own cannabis infusions for cooking and baking.
What You’ll Need for Cannabis Infusions
For Cannabis-Infused Oil:
- 1 cup of oil (coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil)
- 7-14 grams of ground cannabis (choose a strain that suits your needs)
- Double boiler or slow cooker
- Fine strainer or cheesecloth
- Storage jar
For Cannabis-Infused Butter:
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 7-14 grams of ground cannabis
- 1 cup of water
- Double boiler or slow cooker
- Fine strainer or cheesecloth
- Storage jar
Step-by-Step Process for Making Cannabis-Infused Oils and Butters
1. Decarb Your Cannabis
To maximize the potency of your cannabis infusions, start by decarboxylating your cannabis. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread the ground cannabis on a baking sheet and bake for about 30-40 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step is crucial for activating the THC and CBD.
2. Infusion Process
For Cannabis-Infused Oil:
- Fill your double boiler with water and set it on low heat. Add the oil and allow it to warm.
- Stir in your decarbed cannabis, maintaining a low temperature (160-200°F or 70-93°C) for 2-3 hours. Avoid boiling; a gentle simmer is best.
- Stir occasionally to promote an even infusion.
For Cannabis-Infused Butter:
- In your double boiler, combine the butter and water over low heat.
- Once the butter has melted, add the decarbed cannabis and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring regularly.
3. Strain the Infusion
After the infusion is complete, strain the mixture through a fine strainer or cheesecloth to remove the plant material. Squeeze gently to extract all the infused liquid.
4. Storage Tips
Transfer your cannabis-infused oil or butter to a clean jar and let it cool. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a month or freeze it for longer shelf life. Make sure to label your jars to prevent any mix-ups!
Using Your Cannabis Infusions in Recipes
Your cannabis-infused oil and butter can be used in a variety of recipes. Use the oil for salad dressings, marinades, or drizzling over dishes. The infused butter is perfect for baking delicious cookies, brownies, or adding to savory dishes.
Conclusion
Making cannabis-infused oils and butters is a straightforward way to explore the culinary potential of cannabis. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create flavorful infusions that enhance your cooking and baking. Remember to start with small amounts in your recipes to gauge potency. Enjoy your culinary journey with cannabis!