Cooking with THC is an exciting way to enjoy cannabis, offering an alternative to smoking or vaping. Infused oils and butter are the foundation of many cannabis edibles, providing a convenient way to incorporate THC into meals. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, understanding the infusion process is key to achieving potency and great flavor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of making THC-infused oils and butter, from choosing the right strain to storing your final product.
Decarboxylation: Activating the THC
Before infusing THC into oil or butter, you must first decarboxylate the cannabis. Raw cannabis contains THCA, which is non-psychoactive. Heating it through decarboxylation converts THCA into THC, which produces the desired effects. To decarboxylate, preheat your oven to 220°F (105°C), break the cannabis into small pieces, and spread it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial to ensure your infused oil or butter has maximum potency.
Choosing the Right Oil or Butter for Infusion
The type of fat you use affects both the flavor and potency of your infusion. Coconut oil is a popular choice because of its high-fat content and versatility in both cooking and baking. Butter is another common option, ideal for making baked goods like brownies and cookies. Olive oil works well for savory dishes, while avocado oil provides a mild, nutrient-rich alternative. The key is to choose an oil with high fat content, as THC binds to fat for better absorption.
Dosing Your THC-Infused Oil and Butter
Determining the potency of your infused oil or butter is essential for an enjoyable and controlled experience. The strength depends on the THC percentage of the strain, like the Frosted Donut strain, used and the infusion process. A good rule of thumb for beginners is to start with a small amount—such as ¼ teaspoon per serving—and wait at least two hours before consuming more. If you want to calculate a more precise dosage, online calculators or lab testing can help determine the exact THC content per serving.
How to Infuse THC into Butter
Making THC-infused butter, or cannabutter, is a simple yet precise process. Start by melting unsalted butter over low heat, then add the decarboxylated cannabis. The ideal ratio is one cup of butter to one cup of ground cannabis, but you can adjust based on the desired potency. Simmer on low heat (160-200°F) for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once done, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container, squeezing out all the liquid. Let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator for future use.
How to Infuse THC into Oil
The process of infusing oil is similar to butter, but it requires careful heat control. Combine one cup of oil with one cup of decarboxylated cannabis in a saucepan or slow cooker. Simmer on low heat (not exceeding 200°F) for 2-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Once infused, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a glass jar or bottle. Store the oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency and freshness. This infused oil can be used in salad dressings, sautés, or even drizzled over finished dishes.
Best Uses for THC-Infused Oils and Butters
Once you have your infused butter or oil, there are endless ways to incorporate it into your meals. Cannabutter is perfect for baking cookies, brownies, and cakes. It can also be spread on toast or mixed into mashed potatoes. THC-infused oil works well for cooking pasta, making salad dressings, or even as a finishing drizzle over roasted vegetables. The key is to avoid high-heat cooking, as excessive temperatures can degrade THC and reduce potency.
Storage and Shelf Life of Infused Oils and Butters
Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the freshness and potency of your infused products. THC-infused butter should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few weeks. If you want to extend its shelf life, freezing is an option. Infused oils should be stored in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place, where they can last for up to three months. Always label your products clearly to avoid accidental consumption.
Cooking with THC opens up a world of culinary possibilities, allowing you to enjoy cannabis deliciously and discreetly. By following the proper steps—from decarboxylation to careful infusion and dosing—you can create safe and potent infused oils and butter. Start with small amounts, experiment with different recipes, and most importantly, enjoy responsibly. Whether you’re making baked goods or savory dishes, THC-infused cooking can be a fun and rewarding experience for any cannabis enthusiast.
