Foolproof Cannabutter: The Easiest Method for Beginners

Key Takeaways

• The crockpot method is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to make cannabutter.
• Decarboxylation is essential to activate THC and ensure potency.
• Keeping a low temperature prevents the degradation of cannabinoids.
• Proper straining results in a smoother and better-tasting cannabutter.
• Cannabutter should be stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
• Start with a low dose when consuming to avoid overconsumption.

Introduction – Why Crockpot Cannabutter?

Cannabutter is a key ingredient in cannabis edibles, allowing you to infuse your favorite recipes with the benefits of cannabis. While there are multiple ways to make cannabutter, using a crockpot (slow cooker) is one of the best methods. It ensures a low, steady temperature 🔥, leading to even infusion and minimal effort.

Unlike stovetop methods requiring constant attention, a crockpot lets you “set it and forget it” while yielding potent, high-quality cannabutter. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make cannabutter properly and avoid common mistakes that can ruin potency or flavor.

Why Use a Crockpot for Cannabutter?

The crockpot method is a foolproof way to make cannabutter because it:

✅ Maintains low and even heat 🌡️, preventing THC degradation.
✅ Requires minimal supervision, making it perfect for beginners.
✅ Produces consistently potent butter with a smooth texture.
✅ Prevents scorching, especially when using a bit of added water.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

🟢 7–14 grams of cannabis (trim, shake, or flower)
🟡 1 cup (or 2 sticks) of unsalted butter
💧 1 cup of water (optional, prevents scorching)

Equipment

🍲 Crockpot (slow cooker)
🍪 Baking sheet
📜 Parchment paper
✂️ Grinder or scissors
🧑‍🍳 Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
🫙 Mason jar or airtight container
🥄 Wooden spoon for stirring

Step 1: Decarboxylation – Activating the THC

Raw cannabis contains THCA, a non-psychoactive compound. Heat is needed to convert THCA into THC 🧪, the compound responsible for psychoactive effects.

How to Decarboxylate Your Cannabis:

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 115°C (240°F).
2️⃣ Grind cannabis into small, coarse pieces. Avoid fine grinding, as it can make the butter taste too “green.”
3️⃣ Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the cannabis evenly.
4️⃣ Bake for 30–45 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes.
5️⃣ Cool completely before use.

Step 2: Preparing the Crockpot and Butter

1️⃣ Set the crockpot to low heat (70–90°C or 160–200°F).
2️⃣ Add butter and water (if using) to the crockpot. The water helps prevent burning.
3️⃣ Let the butter melt completely, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Infusing the Butter with Cannabis

1️⃣ Once the butter is melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis. Stir gently.
2️⃣ Cover the crockpot and let the mixture cook for 3–6 hours. Stir every 30–60 minutes.
3️⃣ Ensure the temperature stays below 90°C (200°F). Overheating destroys THC.
4️⃣ Turn off the crockpot and let the mixture cool for 10–15 minutes before straining.

Step 4: Straining the Cannabutter

1️⃣ Place a cheesecloth over a fine mesh strainer and set it over a bowl or jar.
2️⃣ Slowly pour the butter through the cheesecloth. Let gravity do most of the work.
3️⃣ Do not squeeze the cheesecloth too hard, as this can push plant material into the butter.
4️⃣ Discard or compost the leftover plant material.

Step 5: Storing Your Cannabutter

1️⃣ Refrigerate the strained butter for several hours or overnight.
2️⃣ Once solid, remove from the container and drain any excess water.
3️⃣ Store in an airtight container in the fridge (up to 3 weeks) or freezer (up to 6 months).
4️⃣ Label the container to avoid accidental consumption.

Dosage Guide: Finding the Right Strength

Cannabutter potency depends on:

• The strain and THC percentage of the cannabis used.
• The amount of cannabis in the butter.
• The infusion time and temperature.

Tips for Safe Dosing:

✅ Start with a small amount (¼ to ½ teaspoon).
✅ Wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
✅ Test potency by making a small batch of edibles first.

For precise dosing, use an online THC calculator.

How to Use Cannabutter in Recipes

Cannabutter can be used in:
🥧 Baked goods (brownies, cookies, cakes)
🍝 Savory dishes (pasta sauces, garlic bread, mashed potatoes)
🥪 Spreads (butter on toast, pancakes)
☕ Drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate)

Pro Tip: If cooking at high temperatures (above 150°C or 300°F), mix cannabutter with regular butter to help preserve potency.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Skipping Decarboxylation – Your butter won’t be potent.
🚫 Overheating – High temperatures degrade THC.
🚫 Using Too Much Cannabis – Overpowering doses can lead to unpleasant effects.
🚫 Not Stirring Enough – Uneven potency in the final product.
🚫 Straining Improperly – Excess plant material can make butter taste harsh.

Final Thoughts

Making crockpot cannabutter is one of the easiest ways to create high-quality, potent butter for edibles. By following these steps, you’ll achieve consistent results every time. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cannabis cook, this method ensures a smooth and flavorful infusion.

Enjoy responsibly and happy cooking! 🍃✨