With cannabis beverages becoming a growing trend, why not try making your own cannabis-infused drinks at home? These beverages provide a discreet, enjoyable way to consume cannabis without the need for smoking or vaping. Whether you’re into teas, smoothies, or even cocktails, here are some tips and recipes to get you started. Plus, if you visit your local budtender, they may have some extra suggestions to help perfect your drink.
Cannabis-Infused Beverage Basics
Before jumping into recipes, it’s essential to know how to create the base for your cannabis-infused drink. You’ll need either a cannabis tincture, cannabis-infused syrup, or cannabis oil. Here’s a simple method to create a base:
- Cannabis Tincture: Tinctures are cannabis extracts made by soaking cannabis flower in high-proof alcohol. They are versatile and can be added to just about any drink.
- Cannabis Syrup: This is a simple syrup infused with cannabis, perfect for cocktails or sweet drinks. To make it, decarboxylate your cannabis, simmer it in a water-sugar solution, then strain.
- Cannabis Oil: You can also infuse your favorite oils, such as coconut oil or olive oil, with cannabis and mix it into drinks.
Recipes to Try
1. Cannabis-Infused Iced Tea
This refreshing option is perfect for a warm day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed iced tea (green or black)
- 1-2 teaspoons of cannabis tincture (adjust dosage to your preference)
- Lemon slices
- Honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Brew your tea and let it cool.
- Stir in the cannabis tincture.
- Add honey and lemon to taste.
- Serve over ice.
2. Cannabis-Infused Smoothie
A healthy, fruity option to jumpstart your day or help you relax.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen berries
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon cannabis-infused coconut oil
- Honey or agave syrup to taste
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Adjust sweetness as needed.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy.
Budtender’s Suggestions
Your local budtender might recommend using CBD-dominant strains for a more relaxed and non-psychoactive effect, or a THC-dominant tincture if you’re looking for more of a buzz. They may also suggest pairing different strain flavors with your beverages—for example, a lemony sativa strain for a citrus drink or an earthy indica strain for richer smoothies.
Final Thoughts
Making cannabis-infused beverages at home is a fun and customizable way to enjoy cannabis. Start with your base, experiment with flavors, and always dose carefully. Whether you’re into iced teas, smoothies, or cocktails, the possibilities are endless.
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