Cannabis infusions are essential for making edibles. From the staples of cannabis infused cuisine such as butter, oils, honey and flour to the lesser used sugars and alcohol, they help enthusiasts create potent and flavourful recipes. In this article, we take an in-depth look at cannabis infusions and list the various forms popular amongst chefs.
The basics of cannabis infusions
In this section, we define what cannabis infusions are, take a brief look at the history of cannabis infusions, explore the types of marijuana best suited for infusions, explain what decarboxylation is and why it’s a necessary step, provide an overview of THC dosage in infusions, outline best practices for storage, and examine common mistakes made by chefs when creating infused carriers.
What is a cannabis infusion?
A cannabis infusion is a process where cannabis compounds, like THC or CBD, are extracted into a medium. These mediums are often fat-based, but can be other basic ingredients used in cooking. Common infusion bases include butter, oil, flour, alcohol, sugar and milk. Infusions are the foundation of many edibles, but are also used in tinctures and body care products. The potency depends on factors like cultivar, temperature, and infusion time. Compared to smoking, infused edibles provide longer-lasting effects. They are popular for recreational and medicinal use, offering a smoke-free consumption method.
A brief history of infusing cannabis into ingredients
The first recorded use of cannabis infusions comes from the Atharva Veda, one of the four Vedas of ancient Indian scripture, believed to have been written between 1200 and 1000 BCE. The infusion mentioned in this ancient text is Bhang, a cannabis-infused milk drink still consumed today in India. Thanks to archaeological findings, scientists and historians believe that members of the Indus Valley Civilization (~2000 BCE–1500 BCE) consumed cannabis-infused drinks before the first textual account of Bhang.
It’s important to note that historical evidence suggests cannabis was used in China as early as 2700 BCE, though not as an infusion.
History of Cannabis Infusions: A Timeline
- ~2700 BCE: Ancient China – The Shennong Bencao Jing, a legendary Chinese medical text, describes cannabis (Má) being used as medicine for pain, inflammation, and digestive issues. It is believed to have been infused in teas and medicinal preparations. although this isn’t indicated in the manuscript.
- ~2000–1500 BCE: Indus Valley Civilization – Archaeological evidence suggests cannabis use, though no direct textual mention of infusions exists.
- 1200–1000 BCE: Ancient India – First mention of a cannabis infusion. The Atharva Veda mentions the cannabis-infused Bhang – an infused milk drink – associating it with spiritual and medicinal uses. Ayurvedadic medical texts later document cannabis in herbal infusions for pain relief, digestion, and mental well-being.
- 1000 BCE–400 CE: Ancient Egypt & Greece – Egyptians used cannabis-infused oils for pain relief and anti-inflammatory treatments. Ancient Greek texts mention cannabis-infused wine and medicinal extracts.
- 9th–14th Century CE: Islamic Medicine & Persia – Unani medicine, influenced by cannabis adoption in Greek and Indian medical traditions, documents cannabis infusions for sedation and digestive issues. Arabic texts describe cannabis-infused beverages for pain and relaxation.
- 12th–18th Century: Mughal Empire & Europe – Cannabis-infused drinks, including Bhang, spread across India, Persia, and Central Asia. In Europe, hemp infusions were used in folk medicine.
- 19th Century: British Empire & Western Medicine – The Indian Hemp Drugs Commission (1894) studies cannabis use in India and finds cannabis infusions, including Bhang, to have medicinal properties. In the West, cannabis tinctures and infusions become popular treatments for pain, insomnia, and mental health disorders.
- 20th Century: Global Prohibition – Most countries ban cannabis in the early 20th century, leading to restrictions on cannabis infusions. Despite this, cannabis-infused herbal remedies and tinctures persist underground.
- 21st Century: Cannabis Revival – Medical cannabis gains recognition across several countries, and CBD-infused teas, oils, edibles and beverages become popular. In India, Bhang remains legal, and modern cannabis-infused drinks gain popularity worldwide.
What type of cannabis is used in infusions?
Different types of cannabis can be used in infusions, depending on the desired effects. THC-rich cultivars create psychoactive infusions, while CBD-dominant cultivars provide relaxation without a high. Some users prefer balanced cultivars with both THC and CBD. Raw cannabis (non-decarboxylated) offers minimal effects but retains potential health benefits. Full-spectrum cannabis preserves all cannabinoids and terpenes, enhancing the entourage effect. Distillates provide precise dosing without strong flavours, while hash and kief increase potency. Trim and shake, the leftover plant material, can also be infused but may be less potent than high-quality buds.
Why decarboxylation matters in cannabis infusions?
Decarboxylation is essential for activating THC and CBD in cannabis before infusion. Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which have no psychoactive effects until heated. By applying controlled heat, these compounds convert into their active forms, making them effective when consumed. The ideal temperature is 220–240°F (104–115°C) for 30–45 minutes to prevent cannabinoid degradation. Without decarboxylation, cannabis remains inactive, leading to ineffective infusions. Whether using butter, oil, or alcohol, proper decarboxylation ensures potency and consistency in edibles. This simple yet crucial step transforms raw cannabis into a powerful ingredient for infused recipes.
How to properly dose cannabis infusions?
Dosing cannabis infusions correctly ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. Factors like cultivar type, infusion method, and decarboxylation impact potency. Beginners should start with low doses (2.5mg THC per serving) and gradually adjust. Accurate measurement is key—using a cannabis infusion calculator helps determine potency per serving. Mix thoroughly to distribute cannabinoids evenly. Keep in mind that edibles take 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, so avoid consuming more too soon. Always label homemade infusions to prevent accidental overconsumption. Proper dosing allows users to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without unwanted side effects.
Use our cannabis dosage calculator: https://bitemepodcast.com/cannabis-resources/edible-dosage-calculator/
Storage and shelf life of cannabis infusions
Proper storage preserves the potency, flavour, and freshness of cannabis infusions. Butter and oil-based infusions stay fresh for about two months in the fridge and even longer when frozen. Alcohol-based infusions last indefinitely if kept in a dark, sealed bottle. Milk infusions spoil quickly and should be used within a few days. Always label containers with the date and potency. Proper storage prevents cannabinoid degradation, ensuring consistent effects and safe consumption over time.
What are the common mistakes made when preparing cannabis infusions?
Avoiding common mistakes ensures a potent and smooth cannabis infusion. A key error is skipping decarboxylation, which results in weak effects. Overheating or underheating can destroy cannabinoids or fail to activate them. Using too little fat reduces absorption, making infusions less effective. Poor straining techniques leave unwanted plant material, affecting texture and taste. Inconsistent mixing leads to uneven potency, causing unpredictable effects. Rushing the process by infusing at high heat can degrade terpenes, reducing flavor and benefits. Always measure doses carefully to prevent overconsumption. Avoiding these mistakes ensures a balanced, high-quality infusion for edibles and other recipes.
What are the popular cannabis infusions used in edibles?
Cannabis infusions come in various forms, each suited for different recipes. From butter to alcohol, these infused ingredients enhance edibles by providing precise dosing, long-lasting effects, and versatile cooking options.
Cannabis Infused Butter
Infused butter is one of the most popular cannabis infusions. It blends well with both sweet and savoury recipes, making it ideal for baked goods, sauces, and spreads. Used in brownies, cookies, pasta, and more, it provides a consistent potency. Butter’s high fat content helps extract and retain cannabinoids effectively.
Cannabis Infused Oils
Infused oil is a versatile cannabis infusion made with fats like coconut, olive, avocado, or MCT oil. For cannabis edibles, it works well in salad dressings, sautéed dishes, and baked goods. Coconut oil is especially popular for edibles due to its high fat content, which enhances cannabinoid absorption. It’s also often used in homemade topicals.
Infused oils are also popular in medicinal cannabis to treat various ailments.
Oils are also an effective carrier, enabling users to consume cannabis discretely in any social situation. After the unmodified herbal form, cannabis infused oils are the most commercial available form of marijuana.
Cannabis Infused Flour
Infused flour is made by mixing finely ground, decarboxylated cannabis with regular flour. It’s ideal for baking bread, cookies, pancakes, and other baked goods. Unlike butter or oil infusions, it evenly distributes cannabis throughout dry ingredients. It works best when combined with fat-based ingredients to improve cannabinoid absorption and potency.
Cannabis Infused Salts
Infused salts combine cannabis extract with coarse or fine salt, creating a savory and versatile infusion. It enhances flavor in roasted vegetables, grilled meats, soups, and even cocktail rims. Unlike butter or oil, infused salt provides a precise way to season dishes while delivering cannabinoids without altering texture or moisture levels.
Cannabis Infused Milk
Cannabis-infused milk is made by gently heating cannabis with whole milk or cream, allowing cannabinoids to bind to fats. It’s commonly used in hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, as well as creamy soups and desserts. Due to its short shelf life, refrigeration is essential for freshness.
Cannabis Infused Sugar
Cannabis-infused sugar is made by binding cannabis extract to sugar granules. It blends easily into coffee, tea, cocktails, and baked goods, offering a discreet way to enjoy cannabis. Unlike butter or oil, infused sugar dissolves smoothly in liquids, making it ideal for drinks, desserts, and confections.
Cannabis Infused Honey
Cannabis-infused honey is a natural sweetener that combines honey with cannabis extract. It’s perfect for tea, coffee, smoothies, and drizzling over toast, cakes, ice cream, waffles and pancakes. Unlike butter or oil, infused honey dissolves easily in liquids and adds a mild, herbal flavor, making it a popular choice for both beverages and edibles.
Cannabis Infused Alcohol
Infused alcohol is made by soaking decarboxylated cannabis in high-proof spirits like vodka, rum, or Everclear. This process extracts cannabinoids and terpenes, creating a potent tincture. It’s used in cocktails, sauces, sweets and desserts. Unlike oil-based infusions, alcohol absorbs quickly, making it ideal for sublingual use or mixed into flavorful drinks.
Table of popular cannabis infused dishes
| Dish Type | Butter | Oil | Flour | Sugar | Salt | Milk | Honey | Alcohol |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brownies | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Cookies | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Cakes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Pasta Sauce (Marinara, Alfredo) | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Barbecue Sauce | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Salad Dressings (Vinaigrette, Ranch) | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Aioli & Mayonnaise | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No | No |
| Syrups | No | No | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No |
| Cannabis-Infused Cocktails | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
FAQ: Cannabis infusions
1. What is a cannabis infusion?
A cannabis infusion is a process where cannabinoids like THC and CBD are extracted into a fat-based or liquid medium, such as butter, oil, alcohol, or milk. These infusions are used to create edibles, tinctures, and other cannabis products.
2. Why is decarboxylation necessary before making cannabis infusions?
Decarboxylation activates the THC and CBD in raw cannabis, making them effective when consumed. Without heating at the correct temperature, infusions will have little to no psychoactive or medicinal effects.
3. What are the most common types of cannabis infusions?
Popular cannabis infusions include cannabutter, infused oils, infused flour, infused sugar, infused salts, infused alcohol, and infused milk. Each serves different cooking and baking purposes.
4. How do I choose the right cannabis strain for an infusion?
The strain selection depends on your desired effects:
- THC-rich strains provide a psychoactive high.
- CBD-dominant strains offer relaxation without intoxication.
- Balanced strains combine both effects.
- Full-spectrum cannabis retains terpenes and minor cannabinoids for enhanced benefits.
5. What is the best temperature for cannabis infusion?
The ideal decarboxylation temperature is 220–240°F (104–115°C) for 30–45 minutes. Infusion should be done at a lower temperature (160–200°F or 71–93°C) to avoid degrading cannabinoids and terpenes.
7. How can I accurately dose cannabis infusions?
Use a cannabis infusion calculator to determine potency per serving. Start with 2.5–5mg THC if you’re new to edibles and adjust based on tolerance.
8. How long do cannabis edibles take to kick in?
Edibles take between 30 minutes to 2 hours to take effect, depending on metabolism and whether they’re consumed on an empty stomach.
9. How should I store cannabis infusions?
- Butter and oils: Refrigerate for up to two months or freeze for long-term storage.
- Infused sugar and salt: Store in a cool, dry place indefinitely.
- Alcohol-based infusions: Keep in a sealed, dark bottle for long-term use.
- Infused milk: Refrigerate and use within a few days to prevent spoilage.
10. How can I prevent common mistakes when making cannabis infusions?
- Don’t skip decarboxylation — it’s essential for potency.
- Avoid overheating, which can destroy cannabinoids.
- Use enough fat (butter, oil, or alcohol) for better absorption.
- Strain properly to remove unwanted plant material.
- Mix well to ensure even distribution of cannabinoids.
11. Can I use cannabis trim or shake for infusions?
Yes! While trim and shake are less potent than premium buds, they can still be infused effectively. You may need to use more plant material to achieve the desired strength.
12. Can I make cannabis infusions without a strong taste?
Yes, distillate or isolate can be used for a nearly flavorless infusion. Coconut oil also helps mask strong cannabis flavors better than butter.
13. Are cannabis infusions legal?
Cannabis laws vary by country and state. Always check local legislation before making or consuming infused edibles.
14. Can I mix different infusion types in one recipe?
Yes! You can combine cannabutter, infused sugar, and infused flour in baking for a more potent edible. Just be mindful of the total THC dosage.
15. How long do cannabis infusions stay potent?
Properly stored edibles maintain potency for several months but may degrade over time. Store in an airtight container away from light and heat.
16. What’s the best fat for making cannabis-infused edibles?
Coconut oil is the best fat for absorption, followed by butter and olive oil. The higher the fat content, the better cannabinoids bind.
View our cannabis infused edibles glossary