Weed Butter Recipe: Weed butter, also known as cannabis butter or cannabutter, is one of the most popular ways to enjoy cannabis without smoking. Instead of inhaling smoke, you get to experience the effects of cannabis through delicious foods and baked goods. People have been infusing butter with herbs for centuries, and cannabis fits right into that tradition. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of THC and CBD in a more discreet, tasty, and long-lasting way.
When you eat edibles made with weed butter, the effects usually take longer to kick in—sometimes anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours—but they also last much longer than smoking. This makes it ideal for those who want sustained relief from pain, anxiety, or insomnia. Not to mention, cooking with weed butter is fun and opens the door to a whole world of cannabis-infused recipes, from gooey brownies to creamy pasta sauces.
Think of weed butter as the foundation for countless cannabis edibles. Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you can get creative and start experimenting with all kinds of dishes. But before we jump into the kitchen, there are a few things you need to understand about the process.
Understanding the Basics Before You Start
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand how weed butter actually works. Cannabis in its raw form doesn’t have the same effects as when it’s heated. That’s because cannabinoids like THC and CBD need to be activated through a process called decarboxylation. This simply means heating your cannabis at a low temperature to transform THCA into THC and CBDA into CBD—the compounds responsible for the effects you’re looking for.
Skipping decarboxylation is one of the biggest mistakes beginners make. If you just toss raw cannabis into melted butter, you’ll end up with a grassy-tasting mixture that won’t do much for you. That’s why the first step of this recipe is always to bake the cannabis gently before mixing it with butter.
Another thing to consider is dosage. Edibles can be tricky because the effects are stronger and last longer than smoking. It’s always best to start with small amounts of weed butter until you know how your body reacts. Too much THC at once can lead to an overwhelming high, which isn’t pleasant for most people.
Finally, safety matters. Always store your weed butter in a clearly labeled container and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Since it looks like regular butter, it’s easy for someone to mistake it for everyday cooking butter—which could lead to some unwanted surprises.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Weed Butter
Making weed butter doesn’t require a long shopping list. In fact, you only need three core ingredients, and the rest is optional depending on your preferences. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cannabis Flower – The star of the recipe. Most people use around 7–10 grams (¼ ounce) of cannabis per 1 cup of butter, but you can adjust based on your tolerance. Choose a strain that matches the effect you want—indica for relaxation, sativa for energy, or hybrid for balance.
- Unsalted Butter – Always use unsalted butter so you have better control over flavor in your final recipes. Some people prefer clarified butter (ghee) because it has a higher fat content, which helps absorb cannabinoids more effectively.
- Water – Adding a little water to the butter mixture helps prevent burning and makes the process smoother. It also helps separate plant material from the butter later.
Optional Ingredients:
- A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract if you want to mask the herbal taste.
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if you plan on using the butter in savory dishes.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. You can scale it up or down depending on how much weed butter you want to make. Just remember to keep the cannabis-to-butter ratio consistent so your dosage remains predictable.
Tools and Equipment Required
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready. While you don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets, a few basic items will make the process easier and ensure your weed butter comes out smooth and potent.
- Baking Tray – For decarboxylating your cannabis in the oven.
- Parchment Paper – Prevents the buds from sticking to the tray.
- Saucepan or Slow Cooker – A slow cooker is ideal because it keeps a steady low temperature, but a regular saucepan works too.
- Cheesecloth or Fine Strainer – To strain out plant material from the butter. Cheesecloth gives the smoothest result.
- Mixing Spoon – Preferably wooden or silicone for stirring.
- Glass Jar or Airtight Container – For storing your finished weed butter.
- Knife and Cutting Board – To break down the cannabis buds into smaller pieces.
Having the right tools ensures you don’t lose any of that precious infused butter during the process. Straining is especially important because leftover plant material can make your butter taste bitter and give it an unpleasant texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Weed Butter
Step 1: Decarboxylating the Cannabis
Decarboxylation is the magic key that unlocks the power of your cannabis. To do it, preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C)—a temperature low enough to preserve cannabinoids and terpenes without burning them. Break your cannabis into small pieces and spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 30–40 minutes, gently stirring every 10 minutes for even heating.
Once finished, your cannabis will look slightly toasted and give off a stronger aroma. This process ensures THC is active and ready to infuse into your butter. Skipping this step will leave you with weak, ineffective butter, so don’t rush it.
Step 2: Melting the Butter with Water
Now that your cannabis is properly decarboxylated, it’s time to prepare the butter base. Take a saucepan or slow cooker and add 1 cup of unsalted butter along with 1 cup of water. The water isn’t absolutely necessary, but it helps regulate the temperature and prevents the butter from scorching. It also makes the straining process much easier later on, since the water will separate from the fat.
Heat the mixture on low heat until the butter is fully melted. Avoid turning up the flame too high—remember, cannabinoids are sensitive to high temperatures, and overheating can reduce potency. The goal is to keep the butter at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil. A slow cooker is ideal here because it maintains a consistent temperature without much effort. If you’re using a stove, keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
This step may feel like just melting butter, but it sets the stage for proper infusion. Think of it like preparing the soil before planting seeds—your cannabis needs the right environment to release its cannabinoids into the fat molecules in the butter. Once the butter is ready, you’re all set to add in your cannabis.
Step 3: Adding Cannabis to the Mixture
Now comes the exciting part—combining your decarboxylated cannabis with the melted butter. Gently sprinkle the toasted cannabis into the saucepan or slow cooker. Stir slowly to make sure all of it is fully submerged in the butter and water mixture.
At this point, your kitchen will start to smell pretty strong, so it might be a good idea to crack open a window or run the exhaust fan. Some people even prefer to use a mason jar double-boiler method to keep the smell more contained, but the classic saucepan approach works perfectly fine.
The infusion process is about patience, not speed. Once the cannabis is in the butter, you’ll let it simmer for several hours to extract the cannabinoids properly. A good rule of thumb is to cook it low and slow for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. You don’t want it bubbling vigorously; instead, it should look like a gentle simmer, almost as if it’s “steeping” like tea.
During this stage, the cannabinoids bind to the fat molecules in the butter, creating that magical infusion we’re after. The longer you let it infuse (without overheating), the stronger your weed butter will be.
Step 4: Slow Cooking the Infusion
The heart of weed butter making lies in this step: the slow simmer. This is where the butter takes on all the potency and aroma of your cannabis. Keep the temperature between 160°F–200°F (70°C–93°C)—never higher than 200°F, as overheating can destroy THC.
Let the mixture cook for at least 2 hours, but for stronger butter, many people prefer 3–4 hours. If you’re using a slow cooker, you can even let it infuse for up to 8 hours, but always on the lowest setting.
While simmering, stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even distribution of cannabinoids. If you notice water evaporating, feel free to add a little more. This helps maintain the right consistency and prevents burning.
During this stage, you’ll notice the butter turning a rich greenish-gold color, which is a good sign that the infusion is working. The longer you let it sit, the more potent it becomes—but don’t go overboard. After about 4 hours, you’ve already extracted most of the cannabinoids, so additional time won’t make a huge difference.
By the end of this step, you’ll have a fragrant, herbal-infused butter that’s almost ready for straining.
Step 5: Straining the Butter
Once the simmering process is complete, it’s time to separate the butter from the cannabis plant material. This step is crucial for both flavor and texture. Nobody wants gritty, leafy bits in their brownies or mashed potatoes.
Take a clean bowl or large measuring cup and line it with cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer. Carefully pour the hot butter mixture through the cloth, allowing the liquid to strain through while catching the leftover cannabis. Use a spoon to gently press down on the plant matter, squeezing out as much infused butter as possible. But don’t press too hard, or you’ll risk pushing unwanted particles into your butter.
The strained liquid will look golden green and slightly oily. Place it in the fridge to cool and solidify. As it sets, the butter will rise to the top, separating from the water. After a few hours, you’ll be able to lift the solid butter layer right off. Discard the leftover water, and voilà—you’ve got pure, homemade weed butter!
At this stage, you may want to cut the butter into smaller portions and store them separately. This makes it easier to measure out doses for future recipes without constantly reheating or cutting into a big block of butter.
Step 6: Cooling and Storing
The final step is ensuring your hard work doesn’t go to waste. Once your weed butter has cooled and solidified, transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar. Proper storage is key to maintaining potency and freshness.
- Refrigerator Storage: Weed butter lasts about 2–3 weeks in the fridge. Always keep it sealed to prevent it from absorbing other food odors.
- Freezer Storage: For longer storage, freeze your butter in small portions. It can last up to 6 months in the freezer without losing much potency. Simply thaw before using.
- Label Clearly: Always label your container with “Cannabis Butter” and the date you made it. This prevents accidental consumption and helps you track its freshness.
Properly stored weed butter retains both flavor and strength, making it ready for any recipe whenever you need it. Whether you’re whipping up brownies, cookies, or savory dishes, having a stash of homemade cannabutter on hand means endless possibilities.
How to Store Weed Butter Properly
Storing your weed butter correctly makes all the difference in keeping its flavor, freshness, and potency intact. After all the time and effort you put into making it, the last thing you want is for it to spoil too quickly or lose its strength. The good news is, with the right storage methods, you can enjoy your butter for weeks—or even months.
The first step is always to let the butter cool completely before sealing it away. Once it has solidified, transfer it into an airtight container or a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This helps prevent oxygen from breaking down the cannabinoids and keeps out moisture that could cause mold.
If you plan to use your butter regularly, the refrigerator is your best option. Weed butter can stay fresh for 2–3 weeks in the fridge, as long as it’s sealed properly. Just make sure to keep it separate from your everyday butter to avoid mix-ups—especially if you live with family or roommates.
For longer-term storage, the freezer is ideal. You can freeze weed butter for up to 6 months, and it will still be just as potent when you thaw it out. To make things more convenient, try dividing it into smaller portions (like in an ice cube tray) before freezing. That way, you can grab just the right amount without defrosting the whole batch.
Finally, always remember to label your container. Write “Weed Butter” clearly along with the date you made it. This prevents accidental use and helps you track how long it’s been sitting. Properly stored, your butter will always be ready when inspiration strikes in the kitchen.
Dosage and Consumption Tips
One of the trickiest parts of using weed butter is figuring out the right dosage. Unlike smoking, where the effects are almost instant, edibles take longer to kick in and can feel much stronger. That’s why it’s important to go slow and steady when experimenting with your homemade cannabutter.
The strength of your butter depends on a few factors: the strain of cannabis you used, how much you added, and how long you simmered it. A good starting point is using 1 teaspoon of weed butter in a recipe and seeing how your body reacts. If you’re new to edibles, wait at least 2 hours before having more. The effects take time to build, and eating too much too quickly can lead to an uncomfortable high.
For beginners, it’s always better to start small—think of it as dipping your toes into the pool before diving in. Experienced users may feel comfortable with larger amounts, but even then, it’s smart to measure portions carefully. If you’re baking, remember that the butter will be divided across multiple servings, so calculate the approximate dosage per piece.
Here’s a simple rule to follow: start low, go slow, and be patient. Once you know your tolerance level, you can adjust recipes and portion sizes accordingly.
Creative Ways to Use Weed Butter in Recipes
Now that you’ve got your weed butter ready, it’s time for the fun part—using it in your favorite dishes. The beauty of cannabutter is its versatility. You can swap it for regular butter in almost any recipe, instantly turning everyday foods into cannabis-infused creations.
Baked Goods
The classic use for weed butter is in baked treats like brownies, cookies, and cakes. The richness of the butter blends perfectly with chocolate and sugar, making the cannabis flavor less noticeable. A tray of gooey brownies made with cannabutter is the ultimate edible classic.
Savory Dishes
Weed butter isn’t just for desserts—it shines in savory recipes too. Try adding a spoonful to mashed potatoes, spreading it over garlic bread, or stirring it into pasta sauce. Even simple sautéed vegetables get an upgrade when cooked with infused butter.
Everyday Use
For a quick and easy dose, spread weed butter on toast, melt it over pancakes, or stir a little into your morning coffee. These small servings are a great way to enjoy cannabis without overdoing it.
When cooking with weed butter, keep the temperature in mind. High heat can burn off cannabinoids, reducing potency. So, try adding the butter toward the end of cooking or use it in recipes that don’t require super high heat.
Whether you’re baking, cooking, or just spreading it on a snack, weed butter opens the door to endless culinary creativity.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Weed Butter
Even though the process sounds simple, a few common mistakes can ruin your batch of weed butter. Knowing what to avoid will save you time, ingredients, and frustration.
- Skipping Decarboxylation – This is the biggest mistake. Without it, your butter won’t be potent because the THC and CBD remain inactive.
- Cooking at Too High a Temperature – Overheating can burn cannabinoids and destroy their effects. Always keep it low and slow.
- Using Too Much Cannabis – More isn’t always better. Overloading the butter can make the taste unbearable and the dosage unpredictable.
- Not Stirring Enough – Stirring ensures the cannabinoids spread evenly throughout the butter. Otherwise, some portions may be stronger than others.
- Poor Straining – If you rush straining, you’ll end up with gritty butter full of plant material. Always use cheesecloth or a fine strainer for smooth results.
- Improper Storage – Leaving butter exposed to air or not labeling it can lead to spoilage or accidental consumption.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll consistently make high-quality, potent, and tasty weed butter.
Health and Safety Considerations
While weed butter can be a fun and tasty way to enjoy cannabis, it’s important to treat it with care. Unlike smoking, where you feel the effects almost instantly, edibles take time to kick in and can last for hours. This delayed onset is where many people make mistakes—eating more before the first dose has a chance to work. To stay safe, patience is your best friend.
Another factor to consider is dosage control. Since edibles can be strong, consuming too much at once may lead to unpleasant side effects like dizziness, paranoia, or nausea. Always start with a small serving, especially if you’re new to cannabis edibles. Think of it like sipping a strong cocktail—you wouldn’t gulp it all at once without knowing how it might affect you.
It’s also worth noting that everyone’s body reacts differently to cannabis. Factors like metabolism, body weight, and tolerance level all play a role in how strongly you feel the effects. That’s why one person might feel perfectly relaxed after a small piece of weed-buttered toast, while another might feel overwhelmed with the same dose.
Safety doesn’t stop with consumption—it’s also about storage. Keep your weed butter clearly labeled and stored in a secure spot. Since it looks like regular butter, children, pets, or even unsuspecting adults could mistake it for the real thing. A locked container or a dedicated spot in your fridge or freezer is the safest option.
Lastly, remember that while cannabis is becoming more widely accepted, laws vary depending on where you live. Always make sure you’re following your local regulations regarding possession, use, and preparation of cannabis products. Being responsible ensures you can enjoy your weed butter without running into trouble.
FAQs about Weed Butter Recipe
1. How strong will my weed butter be?
The potency depends on the strain, the amount of cannabis used, and how long you simmer it. If you’re unsure, test a small portion first and adjust in future batches.
2. Can I use stems and trim instead of buds?
Yes, you can. Stems and trim contain cannabinoids, though not as much as buds. Your butter may be less potent, but it’s a good way to avoid waste.
3. What’s the best butter to use?
Unsalted butter or clarified butter (ghee) is best. Clarified butter has a higher fat content, which can absorb cannabinoids more efficiently.
4. Can I make vegan weed butter?
Absolutely. Substitute regular butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Coconut oil, in particular, works wonderfully because of its high fat content.
5. How long do the effects of edibles last?
Typically, the effects last anywhere from 4–8 hours, depending on your metabolism, dosage, and tolerance. Some people may feel residual effects even longer.
Conclusion
Making weed butter at home is both simple and rewarding. It’s the foundation of countless cannabis edibles, giving you the freedom to create anything from brownies and cookies to savory dishes like pasta or garlic bread. By following the steps carefully—especially decarboxylation and slow simmering—you’ll end up with potent, flavorful butter every time.
The key to enjoying weed butter safely is patience and moderation. Start with small servings, wait for the effects, and always label and store your butter responsibly. With a little practice, you’ll master the process and open up a world of delicious cannabis-infused recipes.
So next time you’re in the kitchen, why not swap out your regular butter for your homemade cannabutter? It’s a fun way to enjoy cannabis in a whole new form.
