How to Make Potent Cannabutter for Your Favorite Recipes

Table of Contents

• Key Takeaways
• 1. Introduction
• 2. What Is Cannabutter and Why Use It?
• 3. Key Ingredients and Equipment
• 4. Decarboxylation Essentials
• 5. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cannabutter
• 6. Tips for Flavor and Potency
• 7. Minimizing Odor with the Mason Jar Method
• 8. How to Store Cannabutter
• 9. Frequently Asked Questions
• 10. Conclusion

Key Takeaways

• Cannabutter is a foundational ingredient in many cannabis-infused recipes, delivering a discreet and convenient way to consume THC.
• Decarboxylation is critical for activating THC and ensuring potent cannabutter.
• Simple methods—like stovetop, slow-cooker, or the mason jar technique—let you tailor flavor, potency, and even manage odor levels.

1. Introduction

Cannabutter—short for cannabis-infused butter—is one of the most popular ways to incorporate THC into edibles. From baked goods like brownies to savory dishes, cannabutter provides a versatile base for countless recipes. This article will guide you through essential steps to ensure your cannabutter is potent and delicious, including a mason jar low-odor method and tips for proper storage.

2. What Is Cannabutter and Why Use It?

Cannabutter is regular butter that has been simmered or slow-cooked with decarboxylated cannabis. The THC and other cannabinoids bind to the butter’s fats, creating an infusion that can be substituted for regular butter in recipes.

• Convenience: Pre-made cannabutter allows you to easily measure and control dosage.
• Discretion: Ideal for those who prefer not to smoke or vape cannabis.
• Versatility: Works in sweet, savory, and even vegan-friendly formats (using dairy-free butter alternatives).

3. Key Ingredients and Equipment

• Cannabis Flower: Decarboxylated to maximize THC content.
• Butter: Unsalted is often preferred for flavor control. You can also use vegan or lactose-free butter alternatives.
• Water (optional): Helps regulate temperature and prevent scorching (in stovetop or slow-cooker methods).
• Kitchen Tools:
  • Saucepan, slow cooker, or mason jar (for low-odor method)
  • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth for filtering
  • Thermometer (optional but recommended)

4. Decarboxylation Essentials

Before infusing, ensure your cannabis is properly decarboxylated to activate THC. For most strains, baking coarsely ground flower at 220–240°F (105–115°C) for 30–40 minutes will convert THCA into THC. (Refer to “Decarboxylation 101” for detailed steps.)

5. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cannabutter

Method 1: Stovetop

1. Melt Butter: Add your chosen amount of butter in a saucepan on low heat (e.g., 1 cup). If desired, add a cup of water to help regulate temperature.
2. Add Decarbed Cannabis: Stir in your decarboxylated cannabis.
3. Simmer: Keep the mixture at a low temperature (around 160–180°F or 70–80°C) for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally to distribute heat.
4. Strain: After simmering, pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a heatproof container. Discard the plant material.
5. Cool and Solidify: Let the mixture cool, then place it in the fridge. If water was used, separate and discard the water after solidification.

Method 2: Slow Cooker

1. Add Ingredients: Combine butter, decarbed cannabis, and a little water in the slow cooker.
2. Low and Slow: Cook on low for 4–6 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain and Store: Same as stovetop—strain, cool, and remove excess water if present.

6. Tips for Flavor and Potency

• Use Unsalted Butter: This gives you more control over the recipe’s salt content.
• Add Herbs or Spices: Rosemary, thyme, or garlic can complement savory dishes.
• Monitor Temperature: Too high heat can degrade THC. Aim for 160–180°F (70–80°C).
• Check Potency: Calculate THC per serving (from your “How to Dose Cannabis Edibles Safely” article) for consistent results.

7. Minimizing Odor with the Mason Jar Method

For those concerned about strong cannabis smells filling the kitchen, the mason jar technique can help contain odors during infusion.

How It Works:

1. Decarb the Cannabis: Follow standard decarboxylation steps in the oven.
2. Combine in Jar: Place your decarbed cannabis and butter into a mason jar (or other heat-safe jar). Screw the lid on securely, but do not overtighten.
3. Water Bath: Heat a pot of water to about 160–180°F (70–80°C). Carefully place the sealed jar into the water. Keep the water at a gentle simmer, ensuring the jar is mostly submerged but not leaking.
4. Infuse: Let the jar sit in the simmering water for 2–3 hours, occasionally swirling the jar gently with tongs or an oven mitt.
5. Strain: Remove the jar, allow it to cool slightly, then strain the contents through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.

Advantages:

• Odor Control: The sealed jar significantly reduces smells escaping during infusion.
• Temperature Stability: A water bath helps maintain a consistent, gentle heat, preserving terpenes and THC.

8. How to Store Cannabutter

Proper storage preserves freshness, potency, and flavor:

1. Refrigeration (Short-Term):
   • Lifespan: 2–3 weeks
   • Container: Airtight glass or plastic container. Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.
2. Freezing (Long-Term):
   • Lifespan: Up to 6 months
   • Method: Divide cannabutter into portions (e.g., tablespoons) and wrap in parchment paper or use freezer-safe containers.
   • Defrosting: Thaw in the fridge overnight before use.
3. Avoid Repeated Temperature Swings:
   • Constantly taking cannabutter in and out of the freezer or fridge can degrade THC more quickly.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I skip decarboxylation if I cook at a high temperature later?
A: It’s best to decarb first. Edible cooking times may not be long or hot enough to activate THC fully.

Q: How do I know how potent my cannabutter is?
A: Use a dosing calculator and THC percentage estimate. It’s still approximate, so start with a small serving if you’re unsure.

Q: Can I use the leftover plant material after straining?
A: Most cannabinoids are extracted into the butter, so leftover plant matter has minimal potency. Many people discard it.

Q: Can I make cannabutter with trim or shake?
A: Yes. Trim and shake are budget-friendly options, though potency may differ from buds.

Q: Does adding water affect the potency?
A: Not significantly. Water helps regulate temperature, but most cannabinoids bind to the fats in the butter, not the water.

10. Conclusion

Making cannabutter is a simple yet transformative step for any cannabis cook. By decarbing your flower, choosing the right infusion method, and storing the final product properly, you’ll have a potent, versatile base for countless recipes. Whether you prefer the classic stovetop or the low-odor mason jar approach, cannabutter sets the stage for delicious and discreet cannabis-infused meals.