Cannabis-infused butter, commonly known as cannabutter, is a staple ingredient in Cannabis edibles. It allows you to incorporate the benefits of Cannabis into various recipes, from baked goods to savoury dishes. Whether you’re new to edibles or a seasoned enthusiast, making and using Cannabis-infused butter can elevate your experience with Cannabis in Canada.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Cannabis-infused butter, including its benefits, how to make it at home, and how to use it effectively in your favourite dishes. Additionally, we’ll cover where to buy online Cannabis in Canada to ensure you’re using high-quality ingredients.
What is Cannabis-Infused Butter?
Cannabis-infused butter, commonly known as cannabutter, is a fundamental ingredient in homemade Cannabis edibles. By infusing butter with cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), you can enjoy the effects of Cannabis in a flavorful and versatile way. Whether you’re making sweet treats or savoury dishes, cannabutter allows you to customize your Cannabis experience while enjoying delicious homemade food.
Why Use Cannabis-Infused Butter?
Cannabutter is one of the most popular and effective ways to consume Cannabis. Here’s why:
✅ Versatility in Cooking
Cannabis-infused butter works in countless recipes, making it easy to incorporate into your everyday meals and favourite baked goods. You can use it to:
- Bake cookies, brownies, and cakes for classic Cannabis edibles.
- Stir into soups, sauces, and mashed potatoes for a savoury Cannabis twist.
- Spread on toast, pancakes, or muffins for a simple but potent treat.
- Use in pasta, rice dishes, or sautéed vegetables to enhance your meals.
⏳ Long-Lasting Effects
Unlike smoking or vaping, which produce effects within minutes, Cannabis edibles take longer to kick in but last much longer. When consuming Cannabis-infused butter:
- Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to appear, depending on metabolism and dosage.
- The high lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, making it ideal for extended relief or relaxation.
- The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form that produces stronger effects than inhaled Cannabis.
This slow and steady experience makes Cannabis-infused butter perfect for relaxation, pain relief, and sleep aid.
🎯 Controlled Dosage
When made correctly, cannabutter allows for precise dosing, helping you manage your Cannabis intake. This is especially beneficial for:
- Beginners who need a low and controlled dose.
- Medical users seeking specific therapeutic effects.
- Experienced consumers looking for a reliable and potent edible option.
🕵️♂️ Discreet Consumption
For those who prefer a smoke-free option, Cannabis-infused butter offers a discreet and odour-free way to enjoy Cannabis.
- No strong smells like smoking or vaping.
- Easy to consume privately in any setting.
- More socially acceptable in situations where smoking isn’t ideal.
Whether you’re making edibles for personal enjoyment or therapeutic benefits, Cannabis-infused butter is a simple, effective, and enjoyable way to experience Cannabis.
How Cannabis-Infused Butter Works
Cannabis-infused butter is made by extracting cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD) from Cannabis and binding them to fat molecules in butter. This process allows the active compounds to be efficiently absorbed by the body when eaten, providing a potent and long-lasting Cannabis experience.
🔬 Why Does Butter Work So Well?
Cannabinoids are fat-soluble, meaning they dissolve in fats rather than water. This makes butter (or other fats like coconut oil) an ideal carrier for Cannabis because:
- It effectively extracts THC and CBD from Cannabis during the infusion process.
- It preserves potency, ensuring strong and consistent effects.
- It blends seamlessly into food, making it easy to incorporate into recipes.
🍽️ What Happens When You Eat Cannabis-Infused Butter?
Unlike smoking or vaping, which deliver cannabinoids directly to the bloodstream through the lungs, consuming Cannabis-infused butter involves a different metabolic process:
- The digestive system processes the butter, breaking it down in the stomach.
- The liver metabolizes THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form of THC.
- This metabolite produces stronger and longer-lasting effects compared to inhaled Cannabis.
- Effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to appear, depending on factors like metabolism and food intake.
- The high can last between 4 to 8 hours, making it ideal for prolonged relief and relaxation.
⚠️ Tip: Because edibles take longer to kick in, it’s best to start with a low dose and wait before consuming more to avoid an overwhelming experience.
Who Can Benefit from Cannabis-Infused Butter?
Cannabis-infused butter offers a versatile and smoke-free way to consume Cannabis. It is an excellent option for:
🍪 Edible Enthusiasts
- Perfect for those who love homemade Cannabis treats and infused meals.
- Allows for full control over flavour, potency, and ingredients.
- Easy to experiment with in both sweet and savoury recipes.
💊 Medical Cannabis Users
- Provides long-lasting pain relief, making it beneficial for chronic pain conditions.
- Acts as a natural sleep aid for individuals struggling with insomnia.
- Offers a discreet and inhalation-free alternative to smoking or vaping.
👨🍳 Home Chefs & DIY Enthusiasts
- Ideal for those who enjoy experimenting in the kitchen with infused recipes.
- Allows for precise dosing, ensuring a controlled and enjoyable experience.
- A great way to enhance everyday dishes with the benefits of Cannabis.
🌱 Beginners & Experienced Users Alike
- Beginners can start with low doses and gradually increase as needed.
- Seasoned users can enjoy a potent and customizable edible experience.
Regardless of your experience level, Cannabis-infused butter is an easy, effective, and enjoyable way to experience Cannabis in Canada.
How to Make Cannabis-Infused Butter at Home
Making Cannabis-infused butter at home is simple, but it requires careful preparation to ensure the best results. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a potent, flavorful, and versatile Cannabis butter for all your cooking needs.
🛒 Ingredients Needed
To make Cannabis-infused butter, you’ll need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (high-fat content works best for cannabinoid absorption)
- 1 cup (7-10 grams) of Dried Cannabis flowers (adjust for desired potency)
- 1 cup water (optional; helps prevent burning)
⚠️ Tip: Choose high-quality Dried Cannabis flowers with a strain that fits your needs, whether for relaxation, energy, or pain relief.
🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Decarboxylate the Cannabis
Before infusing Cannabis into butter, you must decarboxylate it. This process activates THC and CBD, ensuring the butter has potent effects.
- Preheat your oven to 220°F (105°C).
- Grind the Dried Cannabis flowers into small pieces (not too fine, as this makes straining harder).
- Spread the ground Cannabis evenly on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 10-15 minutes to heat evenly.
- Let it cool before adding it to the butter.
👉 Why is this important? Without decarboxylation, the THC and CBD in Cannabis won’t be activated, meaning the butter will have little to no psychoactive or therapeutic effects.
2️⃣ Melt the Butter
- In a saucepan, double boiler, or slow cooker, melt 1 cup of butter over low heat.
- Add water (optional): This helps regulate temperature and prevents scorching.
- Keep heat low and steady—high heat can destroy cannabinoids, reducing potency.
3️⃣ Infuse the Cannabis
- Add the decarboxylated Cannabis to the melted butter.
- Simmer on low heat (between 160-200°F or 70-95°C) for 2-3 hours.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even extraction.
🔥 Tip: The longer you infuse, the stronger the butter—but be careful not to overheat, as excess heat can degrade THC.
4️⃣ Strain the Mixture
Once the butter is infused, it’s time to remove the plant material:
- Use a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer over a bowl or jar.
- Slowly pour the butter through the strainer.
- Squeeze or press the remaining Cannabis to get every last drop.
⚠️ Avoid using a coffee filter, as it may clog and slow the straining process.
5️⃣ Store the Cannabis-Infused Butter
- Pour the butter into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2-3 weeks or freeze for long-term storage.
- Once cooled, the butter will solidify—if water separates, simply drain it off.
🥶 Tip: Label the container clearly to avoid accidental consumption!
🍴 How to Use Cannabis-Infused Butter
Once prepared, Cannabis-infused butter can be used in a variety of delicious ways:
🥧 Baking
- Replace regular butter in recipes for cookies, brownies, cakes, and muffins.
- Mix with chocolate or caramel for infused dessert toppings.
🍽️ Cooking
- Stir into mashed potatoes, pasta sauces, or soups for a savoury twist.
- Spread on toast, bagels, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
☕ Beverages
- Blend into coffee, tea, or smoothies for a relaxing drink.
- Stir into warm milk or hot chocolate for a cosy, infused treat.
⚖️ Dosage & Safety Tips
Because Cannabis edibles take longer to kick in, proper dosing is essential.
- Start small—begin with ½ teaspoon and wait at least 1-2 hours before consuming more.
- Effects vary depending on:
- Strain potency
- Infusion process
- Individual tolerance
- If you’re new to Cannabis-infused butter, increase dosage gradually to avoid overconsumption.
🚨 Warning: The effects of edibles can last 4-8 hours, so always dose carefully and avoid consuming too much at once.
With Cannabis-infused butter, you can easily elevate your homemade meals while enjoying the benefits of Cannabis in Canada. Happy cooking!
Where to Buy Cannabis for Infused Butter in Canada
If you’re planning to make Cannabis-infused butter, choosing the right Dried Cannabis flowers is essential. In Canada, you can legally purchase Cannabis from licensed retailers in-store or online. To ensure quality, safety, and compliance, it’s important to buy from trusted sources that follow provincial and federal regulations.
✅ Buying Cannabis in Canada: What You Need to Know
🛒 Where to Buy
In Canada, you have two main options when purchasing Dried Cannabis flowers for Cannabis-infused butter:
1️⃣ Licensed Cannabis Retailers
- Available in most provinces and territories.
- Offer tested, regulated products with labelled potency.
- Staff can provide recommendations based on your needs.
2️⃣ Buying Cannabis Online in Canada
- Convenient and often has a wider selection of strains.
- Must be purchased from government-approved websites or licensed private retailers.
- Delivery is available, but age verification is required.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid unlicensed sellers, as their products may not meet health and safety standards.
🌿 Choosing the Right Cannabis for Infused Butter
Cannabis in Canada comes in various strains and potency levels, each offering different effects. Consider these factors when selecting the best Dried Cannabis flowers for Cannabis-infused butter:
🔎 1️⃣ Strain Type: Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid?
- Indica strains – Best for relaxation, sleep, and pain relief.
- Sativa strains – Promote energy, creativity, and focus.
- Hybrid strains – Offer a balanced mix of effects.
📊 2️⃣ THC vs. CBD Content
- High-THC strains – Produce strong psychoactive effects.
- High-CBD strains – Non-intoxicating, ideal for therapeutic benefits.
- Balanced THC/CBD – A mix of both for mild effects.
💡 Tip: If you’re new to edibles, start with a lower THC strain to control potency.
⚖️ Legal Considerations for Buying Cannabis in Canada
Each province has its own rules regarding Cannabis sales, possession limits, and age restrictions.
📍 Provincial Buying Guidelines:
- Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta – Private and government-run stores available.
- Quebec – Government-controlled sales only, stricter THC limits.
- Manitoba, Saskatchewan – Only private retailers operate.
- Atlantic Canada & Territories – Mix of private and public options.
💻 Buying Cannabis online in Canada? Always check your province’s official website for a list of legal online retailers.
🔥 Final Tips for Buying Cannabis for Infused Butter
- Look for lab-tested products to ensure purity and safety.
- Check reviews and descriptions to find strains suited for edibles.
- Compare prices and THC levels to get the best value.
- Store Cannabis properly in a cool, dark place before using.
With the right Dried Cannabis flowers, you can make potent, high-quality Cannabis-infused butter at home and enjoy a safe, enjoyable experience. Happy cooking! 😊
Conclusion
Cannabis-infused butter is a versatile and easy way to enjoy the benefits of Cannabis in edibles, allowing for a smokeless, long-lasting, and customizable experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, understanding how to make, store, and use cannabutter ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Decarboxylation is essential for activating THC and CBD.
✅ Start with a small dose and wait before consuming more.
✅ Cannabutter can be used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to savoury dishes.
✅ Store properly in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
✅ Buying Cannabis for infusion? Purchase from licensed retailers in Canada to ensure quality and legal compliance.
Making Cannabis-infused butter at home is simple and rewarding, offering endless possibilities for infused cooking. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, creativity, or relief, this DIY staple lets you control the ingredients and potency to fit your needs.
FAQs
1. What is Cannabis-Infused Butter?
Cannabis-infused butter, also known as cannabutter, is regular butter that has been infused with active compounds from Cannabis. It is commonly used in edibles, such as baked goods and savoury dishes, to provide the effects of THC or CBD without smoking or vaping.
2. How Does Cannabis-Infused Butter Work?
When consumed, Cannabis-infused butter is processed by the digestive system and metabolized by the liver. The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which creates stronger and longer-lasting effects compared to smoking. Effects typically begin 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption and can last for several hours.
3. How Do I Make Cannabis-Infused Butter at Home?
Making Cannabis-infused butter involves:
- Decarboxylating the Dried Cannabis flowers to activate THC and CBD.
- Melting butter over low heat.
- Simmering Cannabis and butter together for 2-3 hours.
- Strain out the plant material before storing it.
Check out our step-by-step guide for more details!
4. How Much Cannabis Should I Use in Cannabutter?
The amount depends on desired potency and personal tolerance. A common ratio is:
- 1 cup of butter
- 7-10 grams of Dried Cannabis flowers
Beginners should start with less Cannabis to control potency.
5. How Strong is Cannabis-Infused Butter?
The potency depends on:
- THC content of the strain used.
- Decarboxylation process (proper activation of THC).
- Infusion time and temperature.
- Dosage per serving.
Start with a small dose (½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon) and wait at least 1-2 hours before consuming more.
6. How Should I Store Cannabis-Infused Butter?
For freshness and potency, store Cannabis-infused butter in:
- An airtight container in the refrigerator (lasts 2-3 weeks).
- The freezer is for long-term storage (lasts several months).
Label your butter properly and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
7. What Can I Use Cannabis-Infused Butter For?
Cannabutter is versatile and can be used in:
- Baking – Cookies, brownies, cakes.
- Cooking – Pasta, mashed potatoes, sauces.
- Beverages – Coffee, tea, smoothies.
Replace regular butter in recipes for an infused twist!
8. Can I Buy Pre-Made Cannabis-Infused Butter in Canada?
Yes! In Canada, you can buy Cannabis-infused butter or pre-made edibles from licensed dispensaries. However, availability varies by province and local regulations. Always purchase from legal, trusted retailers to ensure quality and safety.
9. How Long Do the Effects of Cannabis-Infused Butter Last?
The effects of Cannabis-infused butter can last between 4 to 8 hours, depending on:
- Dosage consumed.
- Individual metabolism.
- THC potency of the strain used.
Effects take longer to kick in compared to smoking, so always start low and go slow.
10. Is Cannabis-Infused Butter Legal in Canada?
Yes! Cannabis-infused butter is legal to make at home for personal use under Canada’s Cannabis Act. However:
- Selling homemade edibles is illegal.
- Edibles sold in dispensaries have strict THC limits.
- Each province has different rules on possession and consumption.
Always check your local laws before making or consuming Cannabis-infused butter.