Decarboxylation is a crucial step in making cannabis-infused butter (cannabutter) as it activates the THC, making it ready for consumption. Here's a step-by-step guide to decarboxylate cannabis and make cannabutter:
Decarboxylation Process:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- Cannabis buds or trim (amount depending on desired potency)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Grinder
- Oven
- Oven mitts
- Airtight container for storage
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). This temperature is optimal for decarboxylation without risking burning the cannabis.
Step 3: Prepare the Cannabis
- Use a grinder to break down your cannabis into smaller pieces.
- Spread the ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure it's in a single layer to ensure even decarboxylation.
Step 4: Decarboxylate
- Place the baking sheet with the cannabis in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes. During this time, the cannabinoids will undergo decarboxylation, turning THCA (non-psychoactive) into THC (psychoactive).
- Every 10 minutes, gently shake the baking sheet to ensure even exposure to heat.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
- After 30-40 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- The cannabis should be dry and slightly browned. It will also be very fragrant.
- If the cannabis is still green and moist, return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Store
- Let the decarboxylated cannabis cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container for storage until you're ready to use it.
Making Cannabutter:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
- Decarboxylated cannabis
- Butter (unsalted is preferred)
- Saucepan or double boiler
- Spoon or spatula
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Airtight container for storage
Step 2: Infusion Process
- In a saucepan or double boiler, melt the desired amount of butter over low heat. A good rule of thumb is to use one ounce (28 grams) of cannabis for every pound (454 grams) of butter.
- Once the butter is melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis to the saucepan.
- Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Make sure the mixture never reaches a boil, as this can degrade the cannabinoids.
- The longer you simmer, the more potent your cannabutter will be. However, be cautious not to overcook it, as this can also affect the potency and flavor
Step 3: Strain the Mixture
- After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
- Place a piece of cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer over a clean container.
- Pour the butter mixture through the cheesecloth/strainer to strain out the plant material. Squeeze the cheesecloth to extract as much liquid as possible.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Allow the strained cannabutter to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer it to an airtight container for storage.
- Store your cannabutter in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer-term storage.
Now you have homemade cannabutter ready to use in your favorite recipes! Just remember to dose responsibly and label your cannabutter clearly if you're sharing it with others. Enjoy experimenting with different recipes and dosage levels to find what works best for you
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