How to Make Cannabis Butter (Cannabutter)

Cannabis butter, or "cannabutter," is a cornerstone of homemade edibles. It’s the key to infusing everything from baked goods to savoury dishes with the benefits of cannabis. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned pro, this guide from Opal Cannabis will walk you through how to make your own cannabutter at home.

Why Make Cannabutter?

Cannabutter offers a smoke-free, discreet way to enjoy cannabis with long-lasting effects. It’s versatile enough to fit into almost any recipe, making it an essential ingredient for creative cannabis cooking. With a little preparation, you can elevate your meals and snacks to a whole new level.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients:

• 7–10 grams of cannabis (adjust based on your preferred potency)
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup water (optional, helps prevent scorching)

Equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan or double boiler
• Cheesecloth
• Strainer
• Airtight storage container

Step 1: Decarboxylate Your Cannabis

To activate the THC and CBD in your cannabis, you need to decarboxylate it. This step ensures that your cannabutter is potent and effective.

1. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
2. Break your cannabis flower into small pieces and spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Bake for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally for even heating.
4. Let the cannabis cool. It should appear slightly golden and have a toasted aroma.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

1. In a saucepan or double boiler, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add 1 cup of water to help maintain a stable temperature and prevent scorching (optional but helpful).

Step 3: Infuse the Butter

1. Stir the decarboxylated cannabis into the melted butter.
2. Simmer the mixture on low heat for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. Keep the temperature between 160–200°F (70–93°C) to preserve the cannabinoids.

Step 4: Strain the Mixture

1. Set up a cheesecloth over a fine mesh strainer and place it over your storage container.
2. Carefully pour the butter mixture through the cheesecloth, letting the liquid strain while trapping the plant material.
3. Squeeze the cheesecloth gently to extract as much butter as possible (be cautious—it might still be hot).

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Allow the strained butter to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate until solid.
2. If you used water, the butter will separate from the liquid as it solidifies. Simply remove the hardened butter layer and discard the water.
3. Store your cannabutter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze it for longer storage.

How to Use Cannabutter

Cannabutter is a flexible ingredient that can be used in almost any recipe. Here are a few ideas:

• Spread it on toast or bagels for a simple edible.
• Bake classic cannabis brownies, cookies, or cakes.
• Stir it into pasta, mashed potatoes, or sauces for a savoury twist.

Dosing Tips

• Start Low, Go Slow: Calculate the potency of your cannabutter based on the strength of your cannabis. Start with a small amount (1 teaspoon) and wait 1–2 hours to gauge the effects.
• Label Clearly: Always mark your infused butter and store it securely to avoid accidental consumption.

Create Culinary Magic with Opal Cannabis

With premium cannabis from Opal Cannabis, making your own cannabutter has never been easier. Whether you’re experimenting in the kitchen or whipping up a favourite recipe, we’re here to help you find the perfect flower for your infusion.

Visit Opal Cannabis in-store or check out our menu online to get started. Let’s make something special together!

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