Making pot butter, or cannabutter, is a popular way to infuse butter with the THC and CBD from cannabis. This guide provides a step-by-step process for safely and effectively creating your own. Please note: The legality of making and possessing cannabis-infused products varies significantly by location. Always check your local laws before proceeding.
Essential Equipment and Ingredients
Before you begin, gather these essential items:
- Decarboxylated Cannabis: This is crucial. The decarboxylation process activates the cannabinoids in your cannabis, making them bioavailable. (See the section below on decarboxylation for details.) The amount you use will determine the potency of your butter. Start with a smaller amount if you're unsure.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor and to control the salt content.
- Large Saucepan: Choose a saucepan large enough to comfortably hold the butter and cannabis without overcrowding.
- Fine-Mesh Strainer: This will be used to separate the butter from the plant material.
- Cheesecloth (Optional but Recommended): Cheesecloth provides an extra layer of filtration for a smoother, cleaner final product.
- Glass Jar: For storing your finished pot butter.
Decarboxylating Your Cannabis: A Critical Step
Decarboxylation is the process of heating your cannabis to activate the THC and CBD. Without this step, your butter will not be potent. Here's how:
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
- Spread your cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes, checking frequently. The cannabis should be slightly browned and fragrant. Don't let it burn.
- Allow to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
The Pot Butter Infusion Process
Now that your cannabis is decarboxylated, let's make the butter:
- Combine butter and cannabis: Add the decarboxylated cannabis to your saucepan. Add the unsalted butter, ensuring it's cut into smaller pieces for easier melting.
- Melt the butter over low heat: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Simmer gently: Once melted, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer (up to 4-6 hours), the more potent your butter will be.
- Strain the mixture: Carefully pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth (if using) into a glass jar. Squeeze the cheesecloth gently to extract as much butter as possible.
- Cool and store: Allow the butter to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will solidify as it cools.
Important Considerations and Safety Precautions
- Dosage: Start with a small amount of cannabis to determine your tolerance. It's always better to start low and go slow. Incorrect dosage can lead to unpleasant side effects.
- Potency: The potency of your pot butter depends on the potency of your starting cannabis. If you are using cannabis with a known THC percentage, you can estimate the potency of your butter, but this is not an exact science.
- Smell: The process can produce a strong odor. Ensure proper ventilation.
- Disposal: Dispose of the used cannabis plant material responsibly.
This detailed guide will help you make pot butter safely and effectively. Remember to always prioritize safety and legality. Enjoy responsibly!
