No matter the time of year, it’s never too early – or too late – to start planning your next celebration. Whether it’s a cozy winter dinner, a summer BBQ, or a spooky Halloween bash, adding a few cannabis-infused dishes to the mix can make your party unforgettable.
Here at Dank Budz, we believe good food and good vibes go hand in hand. We’ve gathered some of our favorite cannabis-infused recipes and hosting tips to help you create memorable dishes for every season—all made with love, flavor, and a little green magic.
The Essential Base: How to Make Cannabutter
Almost every great edible starts with cannabutter, the foundation for everything from baked goods to savory dishes. Making your own is easier than it looks and a great way to control potency and flavor.
Here’s a milder, beginner-friendly version that delivers smooth, consistent results every time.
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Basic Cannabutter Recipe (Mild Potency)
Cannabutter is the foundation for most cannabis edibles – from brownies to savory dishes. This mild version is perfect for beginners or for anyone who wants more control over dosing and flavor.
- Total Time: 3 hrs 45 min (incl. 3 hrs simmer time)
Ingredients
- 1/4 ounce (7 grams) finely ground cannabis flower (stems and seeds removed)
- 1 quart (4 cups) water
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan or small pot with lid
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Heatproof jar or container
- Refrigerator (for cooling and storage)
Instructions
- Decarboxylate your cannabis – Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes. This process activates THC and CBD for infusion.
- Simmer gently – In a saucepan, bring water to a light simmer and add butter. Once melted, add the decarbed cannabis. Maintain a low simmer (not a boil) for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Strain and cool – Line a jar or bowl with cheesecloth and carefully pour the mixture through, removing plant material.
- Separate and store – Refrigerate overnight. Once solid, lift the butter layer from the top and store it in an airtight container.
Notes
Tips for Adjusting Potency (If you prefer a stronger batch):
- Use 1 cup butter and 1 cup water instead of ½ cup and 1 quart.
- Extend the simmer time by 30–60 minutes for deeper infusion.
- Choose strains with higher THC content (20–25%+).
For a more precise potency estimate, use the Kind Meds Cannabutter Cooking Calculator – it factors in THC/CBD percentage, infusion efficiency, and servings.
Notes
- Low and slow is key: Keep your mixture at a gentle simmer — never boiling — to preserve potency and flavor. A low, steady heat ensures even infusion without burning off valuable cannabinoids.
- Choose quality butter: Use high-fat, unsalted butter (ideally organic). Cannabinoids bind to fat, so richer butter gives a more efficient infusion and smoother texture.
- Mind your aroma: Cannabutter has a distinct herbal scent while simmering. Use good ventilation or simmer with a lid partially on if preferred.
- Strain carefully: Don’t squeeze the cheesecloth too hard — that can push through plant particles and create a gritty texture. Let gravity do most of the work.
- Cool completely before storing: Proper cooling helps the butter solidify evenly and prevents separation. Once hardened, lift it from the water layer cleanly.
- Portion and label: Divide your cannabutter into tablespoon portions and clearly label with potency. It’s easy to use in future recipes and avoids any confusion.
- Flavor upgrades: For a more gourmet result, try infusing the butter with complementary flavors during simmering — such as a cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, or orange peel — for sweet recipes, or rosemary and garlic for savory dishes.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
Nutrition
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 0
- Protein: 0
Pro Tips for Consistency
- Use high-quality unsalted butter. Avoid margarine or low-fat alternatives — cannabinoids bind best to full-fat butter.
- Portion vertically. When using part of your cannabutter, don’t just scoop the top — cannabinoids can settle toward the bottom.
- Mix well before baking. Ensure the butter is fully blended into your recipe to avoid uneven dosing.
- Cut servings evenly. Use a ruler or kitchen scale for precise portions.
Example
If your cannabis contains 20% THC and you use 7 grams, you’ll have approximately 1,400 mg total THC.
At a 60% extraction rate, your butter retains about 840 mg THC total.
If you bake 24 cookies, that’s roughly 35 mg THC per cookie — so halve or quarter your servings for a milder experience.
Making cannabutter is equal parts science and art. Start with a mild batch, learn your personal tolerance, and adjust as you gain experience. With the right technique (and a little patience), you’ll have a perfect base for dozens of infused recipes year-round.
Understanding Dosage (and Why It’s Tricky)
Even professionals find it challenging to calculate the exact strength of homemade edibles. The potency depends on multiple variables — including the cannabis strain, decarboxylation efficiency, and how thoroughly it’s infused.
A good starting point for new users is 5–10 mg THC per serving, and always wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
To estimate your cannabutter’s potency more accurately, use this helpful tool: Cannabutter Cooking Calculator by Kind Meds AZ
It takes into account:
- THC or CBD percentage in your strain
- Amount of cannabis used
- Number of servings
- Average 60% infusion efficiency
- THCA-to-THC conversion factor (0.88)
Using Cannabis Oil Instead of Cannabutter
If you prefer a lighter option or want something easier to store, cannabis oil can be an excellent alternative to cannabutter. It works beautifully in recipes that already use oil, such as brownies, salad dressings, or savory dishes, and it tends to be slightly more potent since cannabinoids bind efficiently to certain oils. You can substitute cannabis oil for cannabutter at a 1:1 ratio in most recipes, but you may need to adjust texture by adding a little extra flour or dry ingredients in baked goods.
Different oils create different experiences. Coconut oil adds richness and smoothness for desserts, while olive or canola oil are great for everyday cooking. If you’re interested in making your own, check out our full guide, Cannabis Oil for Cooking, for step-by-step instructions, infusion methods, and helpful dosing tips.
Tips for Cooking with Cannabis Like a Pro
Cooking with cannabis is both an art and a science. A few small details can make the difference between perfectly balanced edibles and disappointing results. The key is patience and precision — giving your cannabis the right amount of heat and time, stirring regularly, and letting the infusion process unfold naturally. Always remember to decarboxylate your flower first, keep your mixture gently simmering rather than boiling, and strain slowly for a clean, smooth finish.
If you want to dig deeper into the finer points of cannabis cooking, including how to avoid common mistakes and preserve potency, check out our full guide How to Make Sure Your Cannabis Cooking Doesn’t Kill Your Buzz. It covers everything from proper prep and grinding techniques to dosing tips that will help you get consistent, flavorful results every time.
For Valentine’s Day
When February rolls around, love and indulgence go hand in hand – and nothing says romance like a little homemade magic. Whether you’re gifting your sweetheart, spoiling yourself, or planning a mellow night in, a batch of rich cannabis-infused chocolate truffles brings just the right mix of sweetness and sophistication.
They’re easy to make, fun to decorate, and guaranteed to leave everyone feeling the love.
Want more Valentine’s Day recipe ideas?
Visit the article ‘Elevating Love: A Guide to a Cannabis-Infused Valentine’s Day’
Cannabis-Infused Chocolate Truffles
Rich, velvety, and delightfully decadent — these cannabis-infused chocolate truffles melt in your mouth and deliver a smooth, balanced buzz. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, gifting, or anytime you want a luxurious homemade edible that feels as indulgent as it tastes.
- Total Time: 1 hr 20 min (incl. 1hr chill)
- Yield: 12 truffles 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cannabutter
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: cocoa powder, crushed nuts, shredded coconut
Equipment Needed:
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Whisk or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Refrigerator-safe container or baking tray
- Parchment paper
Instructions
- Heat cream until simmering, then remove from heat.
- Stir in chocolate chips and cannabutter until smooth.
- Add vanilla extract and mix.
- Chill for 1 hour, then roll into 1-inch balls.
- Coat and refrigerate.
- Rich, smooth, and perfect for gift boxes or romantic nights.
Notes
- This assumes 2 tablespoons of cannabutter total in the batch.
- If you make stronger cannabutter, THC per truffle increases proportionally.
- You can make smaller truffles for microdosing (about 24 pieces = ~50 kcal and 2–5 mg THC each).
- For smoother texture, use high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cacao) and room-temperature cream.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Category: desserts
Nutrition
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 1g
For the Fourth of July
Sunshine, good friends, and a few chill vibes – that’s what summer celebrations are all about. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or catching fireworks from the porch, keep the mood light and refreshing with a cool drink that stands out from the usual six-pack.
This cannabis-infused lemonade is tangy, thirst-quenching, and the perfect way to toast to freedom and relaxation all at once.
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Refreshing Cannabis Lemonade
Cool, tangy, and infused with a subtle lift — this refreshing cannabis lemonade is the ultimate summertime chill drink. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard get-together, it’s an easy way to keep guests refreshed and relaxed.
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: 4 cups 1x
Ingredients
- 4 cups cold water
- 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp cannabis-infused honey or syrup
- Ice and lemon slices
Instructions
- Mix water, lemon juice, and sugar until dissolved.
- Stir in cannabis syrup or honey.
- Pour over ice and garnish.
Equipment Needed
- Large pitcher
- Small saucepan (if making simple syrup)
- Stirring spoon
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Citrus juicer
- Ice and serving glasses
Notes
- Sweetness and potency can be adjusted by adding more or less infused honey or syrup.
- For a lighter drink, substitute some sugar with stevia or agave.
- Add fresh mint, sliced strawberries, or sparkling water for a creative twist.
- Keep chilled and stir before pouring to ensure even THC distribution.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Category: drinks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 0
- Saturated Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 0
For Halloween
Halloween is the ultimate excuse to get creative in the kitchen – and the spookier, the better. Whether you’re hosting a costume party or just treating yourself while watching horror movies, a festive edible adds to the fun.
These cannabis-infused chocolate cupcakes are rich, fudgy, and decked out with edible gravestones that are more “deliciously eerie” than scary.
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Spooky Graveyard Cupcakes
Rich, chocolatey, and wickedly fun – these cannabis-infused cupcakes are a Halloween hit. Topped with edible “gravestones” and spooky decorations, they’re a perfect blend of creativity, sweetness, and mellow seasonal vibes.
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp cannabutter (melted)
- Frosting
- Candy and/or cookie toppings
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk dry ingredients together.
- Add oil, eggs, milk, and melted cannabutter; mix smooth.
- Bake 18–20 minutes.
- Cool and decorate with frosting, candy “gravestones,” or gummy worms.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Muffin tin + cupcake liners
- Oven
- Cooling rack
- Piping bag or spatula for frosting
Notes
- This recipe assumes 2 tablespoons of cannabutter in the batter. Adjust up or down for desired potency.
- Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to avoid melting.
- For “gravestones,” use cookies or chocolate pieces with icing lettering.
- Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days or refrigerate up to 5.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 20 min
- Category: desserts
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
For Thanksgiving
The holidays are all about gratitude, good food, and gathering with people who make you feel at home. This year, bring something to the table that’ll spark conversation and keep the vibes mellow – a cannabis-infused pumpkin pie that’s as comforting as it is creative.
Perfectly spiced and silky smooth, it’s the ultimate Danksgiving dessert to end your feast on a high note.
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Danksgiving Pumpkin Pie
Warm, comforting, and perfectly spiced — this cannabis-infused pumpkin pie brings an elevated twist to a classic holiday favorite. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s the ultimate centerpiece for your Danksgiving feast (or any cozy gathering year-round).
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 2 tbsp cannabutter (melted)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- Optional: whipped cream topping
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch pie dish
- Oven
- Wire cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Pour into crust and bake 55–60 minutes.
- Cool before serving.
Notes
- Make sure to let the pie cool fully before slicing — this helps it set properly.
- For stronger potency, use 3 tbsp cannabutter and reduce regular butter (if any).
- You can replace evaporated milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of infused caramel for a decadent finish.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Category: desserts
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 5g
For Winter Holidays
When the weather turns cold and the nights get longer, nothing beats curling up with something warm, sweet, and soothing. Whether you’re winding down after a snowy day or hosting a festive get-together, this cannabis-infused hot cocoa delivers pure comfort in a cup — rich, creamy, and just the right kind of chill for the season.
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Cannabis Hot Cocoa
Cozy, creamy, and perfectly infused — this cannabis hot cocoa warms you from the inside out. Ideal for cold nights, fireside hangs, or any time you want to sip something sweet, soothing, and delightfully relaxing.
- Total Time: 15 min
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk (or plant milk)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cannabutter
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, marshmallows, peppermint stick, pretzel sticks – if you want to make the floating snowman, like the picture 🙂
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mugs for serving
Instructions
- Warm milk in saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in cocoa, sugar, and cannabutter until blended.
- Stir in vanilla and pour into mugs.
- Top and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use whole milk for the creamiest texture, or swap for oat or almond milk if dairy-free.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar or topping with infused whipped cream.
- Stir frequently while heating to prevent scorching the milk.
- For a peppermint twist, add a drop of mint extract or stir with a candy cane.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: drinks
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 5g
Hosting Tips for Elevated Entertaining
Know your dosage:
Start low, go slow, and let guests know the potency.
Label infused foods:
Always clearly mark which items are infused.
Offer balance:
Include both infused and non-infused options.
Pair wisely:
Match strains with flavor profiles – citrusy for desserts, earthy for savory dishes.
Be responsible:
Serve in moderation, and always provide safe transportation options for guests.
Final Thoughts
From Valentine’s truffles to Danksgiving pie, cannabis-infused foods can bring warmth, creativity, and connection to every celebration. Experiment, have fun, and share responsibly – because great food, good company, and mellow vibes are the real recipe for happiness.
For more cannabis recipes, tips, and culture, check out the Dank Budz Blog – your go-to spot for everything from cooking ideas to lifestyle inspiration.
*Editor’s Note: This article was originally published Jan 29, 2019 and has been updated November 12, 2025.
