As cannabis culture continues to grow, so does interest in creative and enjoyable ways to consume it. One of the most popular methods is through infused edibles. While store-bought treats are convenient, there’s something especially rewarding about making your own cannabis-infused goodies at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential tips for cooking with cannabis, so your infused recipes turn out delicious, effective, and safe.
Why Cook with Cannabis?
Cooking with cannabis lets you control the dosage, tailor flavors, and customize your experience. Whether you’re crafting infused brownies, savory dishes, or beverages, homemade edibles give you the flexibility to explore cannabis in a way that suits your personal needs.
Edibles also provide a smoke-free method of consumption, which may appeal to those looking for more discreet or health-conscious options. Keep in mind, though, that edibles have a delayed onset (typically 30 minutes to 2 hours), and effects can last longer than other consumption methods.
Start with Decarboxylation
Before adding cannabis to any recipe, it’s essential to activate its psychoactive compounds through a process called decarboxylation. This involves gently heating cannabis flower at a low temperature (around 240°F/115°C) for 30–40 minutes to convert THCA into active THC.
Learn more about how to decarboxylate cannabis correctly to maximize potency in your infusions.
Choose the Right Strain
Strain selection can influence the effects and flavor of your final product. Looking for something relaxing for evening treats? Try a strain with calming effects like Northern Lights. Want something uplifting for a brunch-style edible? A citrus-forward sativa strain like Lemon Zest can bring a refreshing kick.
Check out our rotating menu of high-THC cartridges and flower options to find the right strain for your next culinary experiment.
Infuse Oils or Butter First
One of the easiest ways to cook with cannabis is to infuse it into a fat like coconut oil or butter, which can then be used in countless recipes.
Here are a few basic tips:
- Use a slow cooker or double boiler to prevent scorching.
- Strain your infusion using cheesecloth to remove plant matter.
- Store your infused butter or oil in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Need a recipe? This guide to making cannabis butter breaks down the process step-by-step.
Dose Carefully
Dosing is one of the most critical (and tricky) parts of making homemade edibles. Start low and go slow. A standard beginner dose is 5–10mg of THC per serving.
Use a cannabis dosage calculator to help estimate potency, especially if you’re working with flower and aren’t sure of the THC percentage.
Experiment with Recipes
Once you’ve got your base infusion, the possibilities are endless. Popular homemade cannabis edibles include:
- Brownies, cookies, and baked goods
- Salad dressings and savory sauces
- Teas, smoothies, or mocktails
- Gummies and chocolates (with the right molds and ingredients)
Want inspiration? Try out these cannabis-infused recipe ideas.
Label and Store Responsibly
Homemade edibles can look like regular snacks, so be sure to clearly label them and store them in a safe place — especially if you share a household with children, pets, or others who shouldn’t consume cannabis.
Final Thoughts
Cooking with cannabis is an art and a science. With the right preparation, ingredients, and care, you can enjoy personalized infused creations that are delicious and effective. Whether you’re new to edibles or an experienced chef looking to experiment, we’ve got you covered at OCC.
Stop by our Waywayanda location to explore our high-quality flower and infused product selection — and be sure to ask our team for strain suggestions to pair with your next recipe.
Want more educational content like this?
Check out our blog archive at orangecountycannabisco.com/blog for more cannabis guides, wellness insights, and product picks.
