How to Make Cannabis Honey + Summer CannaHoney Recipes You Need to Try

 

Imagine a world where honey not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a touch of cannabis-infused goodness. Cooking with cannabis honey opens up a whole new world of culinary possibilities, allowing you to create delicious edibles and beverages with a twist.

 

In this article, we’ll explore what cannabis honey (or cannahoney) is, its benefits, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make cannabis-infused honey at home.

 

What is cannabis honey?

 

Cannabis honey is a blend of honey and cannabis extract, typically made by infusing honey with cannabis-infused oil or tincture. This infusion process allows terpenes as well as cannabinoids like THC, CBD and THCa, to bind with the honey, resulting in a product that retains the distinct flavor and sweetness of honey while incorporating the therapeutic effects of cannabis.

 

The benefits of cooking with cannabis honey

 

Cooking with cannabis honey (just like cooking with cannabutter) offers a range of benefits beyond just adding a unique flavor profile to your dishes. Here are a few reasons why incorporating cannabis honey into your recipes can elevate your culinary experiences:

 

1. Combined therapeutic effects

 

Cannabis honey provides an opportunity to tap into the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. The cannabinoids present in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, may offer relief from various conditions like pain, inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia.

 

Honey has been found to provide numerous health benefits as well. It’s rich in antioxidants, may improve heart health, and is even effective for treating seasonal allergies. 

 

By infusing honey with cannabis, you can create edibles that provide both the natural benefits of honey and the potential wellness effects of cannabis.

 

2. Cooking versatility

 

Cannabis honey can be a versatile ingredient in your kitchen, allowing you to experiment with a wide range of recipes.

 

From drizzling it over toast or pancakes to incorporating it into marinades, dressings, and desserts, the possibilities are endless. The sweet and slightly earthy flavor of cannabis honey can add a delightful twist to your favorite dishes.

 

3. Natural and organic

 

When you make cannabis honey at home, you have the advantage of knowing exactly what goes into your creation. By using organic honey and high-quality cannabis, you can enjoy a natural and organic product free from additives or artificial sweeteners. It’s a wholesome addition to your kitchen pantry.

 

How to make cannabis honey at home

 

Making cannabis honey at home is a rewarding and straightforward process. Just pick up some of your favorite flower from your local dispensary and follow these step-by-step instructions.

 

To make cannabis honey at home, you will need the following tools and ingredients:

 

Tools:

 

1. Baking sheet
2. Parchment paper
3. Heat-safe container
4. Double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl and a pot)
5. Stirring utensil (such as a spoon or silicone spatula)
6. Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
7. Heat-safe jar or airtight container for storage

 

 

Ingredients:

 

1. Cannabis flower (cannabis buds)
2. Honey (choose your preferred type and quality)
3. Optional: Flavorings (such as vanilla extract, cinnamon, or citrus zest) for added taste

 

Step 1: Decarboxylation of cannabis

 

Decarboxylation (or decarb) is a fancy word for heating up cannabis flower. It’s what activates the compounds in the cannabis plant. 

 

To decarboxylate your cannabis:

 

1. Preheat your oven to a low heat of 240°F (115°C).
2. Break up your cannabis flower into smaller pieces.
3. Spread the cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the cannabis turns light brown.
5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the decarboxylated cannabis cool.

 

Step 2: Infusing cannabis into honey

 

Once your cannabis is decarboxylated, it’s time to infuse it into the honey. Here’s how to do it:

 

1. In a heat-safe container, combine the decarboxylated cannabis with honey in a ratio that suits your desired potency. A common starting point is one ounce of cannabis for every eight ounces of honey.
2. Set up a double boiler by placing the container with the cannabis and honey mixture over a pot of simmering water.
3. Stir the mixture frequently for at least 1 to 2 hours, ensuring the temperature remains below the boiling point of water (212°F or 100°C). This slow and gentle heating process allows the cannabinoids to bind with the honey effectively.
4. After the desired cook time, remove the container from heat and let it cool slightly.

 

Step 3: Straining and storing cannabis honey

 

Now that your cannabis has infused into the honey, it’s time to strain and store the final product:

 

1. Line a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a heat-safe container.
2. Pour the cannabis honey mixture into the strainer, allowing it to strain into the container. Apply gentle pressure to extract as much honey as possible while leaving the plant material behind.
3. Once strained, transfer the cannabis honey into a jar or airtight container for storage.
4. Store the cannabis honey in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for several months.

 

Tips for cooking with cannabis honey

Now that you have your homemade cannabis honey ready, here are some useful tips to ensure a successful culinary experience:

 

1. Start with small doses: When cooking with cannabis honey, it’s important to start with small doses and gradually increase as you gauge your tolerance. The effects of cannabis edibles can be potent, so it’s crucial to find the right dosage for your desired experience.
2. Balance flavors: Cannabis honey has a distinct flavor profile. When using it in recipes, consider how the earthy and slightly floral notes will complement the other ingredients. Experiment with different flavor combinations or try replacing sugar in baked goods to find the perfect balance.
3. Adjust cooking temperatures: The psychoactive compounds in cannabis can be sensitive to high temperatures. When cooking with cannabis honey, avoid exposing it to direct heat to preserve the potency of the cannabinoids. Add it to recipes towards the end of the cooking process, or use it as a topping.
4. Label and store properly: If you have multiple infused products in your pantry, always label them appropriately to avoid confusion. Additionally, ensure proper storage in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.

 

Dosage and safety 

 

It’s crucial to approach cannabis-infused edibles with caution and prioritize safety. Here are some dosage and safety considerations to keep in mind:

 

1. Start low and go slow: Begin with a low dosage of cannabis honey, especially if you are new to edibles. Wait for at least two hours before considering additional consumption. The effects of edibles can take longer to kick in compared to other forms of cannabis consumption.
2. Be aware of potency: Homemade cannabis honey may have varying levels of potency, depending on factors such as the strain used and infusion time. Always be mindful of the potency when calculating your desired dosage.
3. Store securely: Keep cannabis honey away from the reach of children and pets. Store it in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion.
4. Communicate and educate: If you are serving cannabis-infused dishes or beverages to others, clearly communicate that they contain cannabis and provide information about the potency. It’s important to educate others about responsible consumption and potential effects.

 

Delicious summer cannabis honey recipes

 

Now that you’ve mastered the art of making cannabis honey, here are a few recipe ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:

 

1. Cannabis honey glazed salmon

 

Ingredients:

 

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons cannabis honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

 

 

Instructions:

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together the cannabis honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, grated ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze mixture onto the salmon fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Bake the salmon for approximately 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve the cannabis honey glazed salmon with your favorite side dishes.

 

2. Cannabis honey strawberry lemonade

 

Ingredients:

 

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 3-4 lemons)
• 4 cups water
• 1/4 cup of honey that’s infused with cannabis (adjust the amount based on your desired potency)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

 

 

Instructions:

 

1. In a blender, puree the fresh strawberries until smooth.
2. In a pitcher, combine the strawberry puree, freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and cannabis-infused honey.
3. Stir the mixture well until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more cannabis honey or lemon juice according to your preference.
5. Fill serving glasses with ice cubes.
6. Pour the cannabis honey strawberry lemonade over the ice cubes, dividing it evenly among the glasses.
7. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint leaves, if desired.
8. Stir the lemonade before enjoying to ensure the flavors are well mixed.
9. Serve the cannabis honey strawberry lemonade chilled and enjoy!

 

3. Cannabis honey banana bread

 

Ingredients:

 

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup cannabis honey
• 2 large eggs
• 4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

Instructions:

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, cannabis honey, eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan.
6. Bake for approximately 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the banana bread to cool before slicing and serving.

 

 

 

FAQs

 

 

1. Can I use any type of honey to make cannabis honey?

Yes, you can use any type of honey to make cannabis honey. Choose a high-quality honey that you enjoy the taste of, whether it’s raw, wildflower, or another variety.

 

2. How do I determine the potency of my homemade cannabis honey?

Calculating the potency of homemade cannabis honey can be challenging due to variations in strain potency and infusion time. It’s best to start with a small dose and gradually increase until you find your desired potency.

 

3. Can I substitute cannabis honey for regular honey in recipes?

Yes, you can substitute cannabis honey for regular honey in recipes. Keep in mind that cannabis honey has a distinct flavor profile, so it may alter the taste of the final dish.

 

4. How long does homemade cannabis honey last?

Properly stored homemade cannabis honey can last for several months. Store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or refrigerator, to maintain its freshness.

 

5. Can I use cannabis honey in beverages?

Absolutely! Cannabis honey can be a delightful addition to hot or cold beverages. Stir it into tea, coffee, or cocktails for a unique twist.

 

Love learning about cannabis? 

 

THC University has over a decade of experience educating cannabis-lovers. Students go on to work as budtenders, cultivators, managers, and other crucial roles in the cannabis industry.

 

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