How to Make Cannabis-Infused Butter (Cannabutter)
Cannabis-infused butter, or cannabutter, is a versatile ingredient perfect for making edibles like brownies, cookies, or even savory dishes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own cannabutter at home.
Ingredients and Tools
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (preferably high-quality for better flavor)
- 7-10 grams of cannabis flower (adjust based on your desired potency)
- 1 cup of water (to prevent the butter from scorching)
Tools:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan or double boiler
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Mixing bowl
- Storage container (preferably airtight)
Step 1: Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation activates the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) in cannabis, making it psychoactive. Without this step, the butter won’t have the desired effects.
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
- Grind your cannabis coarsely—don’t over-grind as too fine a texture can pass through the strainer.
- Spread the ground cannabis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. The cannabis should turn a light golden brown.
It is important not to use the microwave to Decarboxylate cannabis.
Step 2: Simmer the Butter and Cannabis
- Melt the butter in a saucepan or double boiler over low heat. Add the water to keep the temperature stable and prevent burning.
- Once the butter has melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis.
- Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The mixture should not boil—keep it just below a simmer at around 160-200°F (70-93°C).
- You’ll know it’s ready when the butter takes on a greenish tint and the kitchen smells aromatic.
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
- Place a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a bowl or container.
- Slowly pour the butter mixture through the strainer, separating the plant material from the liquid.
- Gently press or squeeze the plant material to extract as much butter as possible. Be careful not to let plant particles pass through.
Step 4: Chill and Store
- Transfer the strained liquid to a container and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight. The butter will solidify on top, while any remaining water will settle at the bottom.
- Once solidified, scrape the butter off the top and discard the water.
- Store your cannabutter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.
Tips for Perfect Cannabutter
- Adjust the Dosage: The potency of your cannabutter depends on the amount and strength of cannabis used. Use an online THC dosage calculator to estimate the strength of your final product.
- Stir Regularly: Stirring ensures the cannabis is evenly infused into the butter.
- Use Low Heat: High temperatures can degrade THC, so always keep the heat low.
- Label Clearly: If storing cannabutter, label it clearly to avoid accidental consumption.
Using Cannabutter
Cannabutter can be substituted for regular butter in almost any recipe. Remember, edibles take longer to kick in (30 minutes to 2 hours), so start with a small amount and wait before consuming more.
Enjoy your homemade cannabis-infused butter responsibly! 🌿
