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Cannabutter

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

Units Scale
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Strain and cool – Line a jar or bowl with cheesecloth and carefully pour the mixture through, removing plant material.
  4. 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.
  • Author: Dank Budz
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours

Nutrition

  • Calories: 100
  • Fat: 11
  • Saturated Fat: 7
  • Carbohydrates: 0
  • Protein: 0
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