You’ll create cannabis-infused honey by first decarboxylating your ground cannabis at 240°F for 30-40 minutes to activate the cannabinoids. Then, combine the activated cannabis with raw honey, maintaining temperatures below 110°F during infusion to preserve honey’s natural properties. Stir continuously for even distribution, and add lecithin if using concentrates to improve binding. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth while warm, and store in airtight, opaque containers. Start with 5mg THC doses and wait 60 minutes between servings. Proper technique and careful measurement guarantee optimal potency and therapeutic benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Decarboxylate cannabis at 240°F for 30-40 minutes until light brown to activate THC and CBD compounds before infusion.
- Combine 3.5 grams of ground cannabis with one cup of high-quality honey in a double boiler setup.
- Heat mixture between 160-180°F for 40 minutes to 2 hours, stirring occasionally and monitoring water levels.
- Strain the infused honey through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove plant material.
- Store in an airtight, dark glass container at 50-70°F and start with ¼ teaspoon doses to test potency.
Preparing Your Cannabis
The proper preparation of your cannabis is essential for creating potent and flavorful infused honey. Your cannabis selection and grinding techniques will significantly impact the final product’s quality. Monitor temperature levels during preparation to maintain optimal cannabinoid extraction.
Begin by choosing fresh, high-quality strains that match your desired effects.
- Select strains with complementary flavor profiles to honey
- Grind cannabis to medium consistency using a hand grinder
- Remove all stems, sticks, and unwanted debris
- Decarboxylate at 240°F for 30-40 minutes until golden brown
The Honey Infusion Process
Creating cannabis-infused honey requires careful attention to temperature control and proper equipment setup.
Using your double boiler, warm honey below 110°F (43°C) to maintain its raw properties.
Different infusion techniques affect flavor profiles differently – you’ll want to stir continuously while incorporating your decarbed cannabis or concentrate.
Add lecithin if using concentrates to improve the mixture’s binding properties.
The process is ready in minutes, making it a quick and efficient method compared to traditional infusion techniques.
Straining Methods
Once your cannabis-honey mixture reaches the right consistency, proper straining becomes essential for achieving a clean, debris-free final product.
Ensure your containers are airtight and labeled before straining to maintain freshness and track potency.
For optimal straining efficiency while preserving potency, use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth while the mixture is still warm.
- Set up a double-straining system using both coarse and fine filters
- Work quickly while mixture remains warm for better flow
- Apply gentle pressure to maximize extraction without compromising quality
- Consider skipping filtration if maximum potency is priority
Storage and Preservation
Proper storage and preservation methods play an essential role in maintaining your cannabis-infused honey’s potency and quality.
When selecting storage techniques, use airtight, opaque glass containers with tight-fitting lids, and store in a cool, dark place away from sunlight. Shelf life ranges from 3-6 months with proper storage conditions.
Your container selection should prioritize heat-resistant materials suitable for viscous liquids.
Monitor regularly for crystallization, and gently warm in hot water if needed.
Safe Dosing Guidelines
Understanding safe dosing guidelines is essential when working with cannabis-infused honey, as improper dosing can lead to uncomfortable experiences.
You’ll need to consider your individual tolerance and make careful dosage adjustments based on your response.
- Begin with 5mg THC or less per serving
- Wait at least 60 minutes before consuming more
- Document your reactions for future reference
- Increase dosage gradually in small increments
Conclusion
Now that you’ve perfected the process of making cannabis-infused honey, you’ll want to store your creation properly in an airtight container away from light and heat. Remember to always start with small doses (1/4 teaspoon) and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more. When made correctly, your infused honey will stay fresh for up to 6 months, providing a versatile addition to your medicinal or recreational cannabis preparations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of honey for infusion?
You can use any type of honey for infusion, but local honey varieties offer unique flavor profiles. Try different options like wildflower, clover, or orange blossom to find your preferred taste.
Will the honey crystallize after infusion?
Your honey will likely crystallize eventually, as it’s a natural part of the crystallization process. You can manage the honey consistency by storing it properly and reheating when needed.
Does cannabis-infused honey have a distinct smell?
You’ll notice a mild cannabis aroma mixed with honey scent during preparation, but once stored properly, your infused honey won’t have a strong smell unless you’re actively smelling it up close.
How long does potency last in cannabis-infused honey?
Your cannabis-infused honey can maintain potency for 6-12 months when you store it properly in an airtight, opaque container and keep it in a cool, dark place.
Can I use water-cured cannabis for making infused honey?
You can use water-cured cannabis for honey infusion, but you’ll need to decarboxylate it first. While water curing offers purity benefits, you’ll want to guarantee it’s completely dry before starting your infusion process.
