Cannabis-infused drinks are a delicious and creative way to enjoy the effects of cannabis without the need for smoking or vaping. Whether you prefer tea, coffee, smoothies, or cocktails, infusing your favorite beverages with cannabis allows for a discreet and enjoyable consumption experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to making your own cannabis-infused drinks at home, from choosing the right strain to infusion methods and recipes.

Choosing the Right Cannabis Strain

Before making your infused drink, it’s important to select the right strain based on the effects you’re looking for:

• Sativa Strains – Ideal for energy and creativity, perfect for daytime beverages like coffee or smoothies.
• Indica Strains – Known for relaxation and calming effects, great for evening teas or warm drinks.
• Hybrid Strains – A balanced mix of both, suitable for any drink depending on the desired effects.
• CBD Strains – Offer therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC, making them great for relaxation without intoxication.

Decarboxylation: The Key to Activation

Before adding cannabis to any drink, it needs to be decarboxylated to activate its compounds. Without this step, your infusion will not have the desired effects. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°F (105°C).
2. Grind your cannabis lightly (not too fine) and spread it evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally for even heat distribution.
4. Let it cool before using it for infusion.

Methods for Infusing Cannabis into Drinks

There are several ways to incorporate cannabis into your favorite beverages. Below are three common methods:

1. Cannabis-Infused Milk or Cream

Perfect for coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups of whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis
• Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan on low heat (do not boil).
2. Add cannabis and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Store in the fridge and use as needed.
5. Cannabis-Infused Honey

Great for teas, smoothies, or drizzling over drinks.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis
• Instructions:

1. Combine honey and cannabis in a double boiler.
2. Let it heat on low for 40-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Strain and store in a jar for future use.
4. Cannabis Tinctures (Alcohol-Based Infusion)

A versatile method that can be added to any drink.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup high-proof alcohol (e.g., Everclear)
  • 3.5 grams of decarboxylated cannabis
• Instructions:

1. Place cannabis and alcohol in a jar and seal tightly.
2. Shake the jar daily and let it sit for 2-4 weeks.
3. Strain using a coffee filter or cheesecloth.
4. Store in a dropper bottle and add a few drops to your drinks.

Easy Cannabis-Infused Drink Recipes

1. Cannabis-Infused Iced Coffee

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup brewed coffee (cold or hot)
  • 1 tablespoon cannabis-infused milk or cream
  • Ice cubes (optional)
  • Sweetener to taste
• Instructions:

1. Brew your coffee and let it cool.
2. Add the infused milk or cream.
3. Stir well, add ice (if desired), and enjoy!
4. Cannabis-Infused Lemonade

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups fresh lemon juice
  • 4 cups cold water
  • ½ cup cannabis-infused honey
  • Ice cubes
• Instructions:

1. Mix lemon juice and water in a pitcher.
2. Stir in cannabis-infused honey until dissolved.
3. Add ice and serve chilled.
4. Cannabis-Infused Herbal Tea

• Ingredients:
  • 1 tea bag (chamomile, green, or black tea)
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 teaspoon cannabis-infused honey or a few drops of tincture
• Instructions:

1. Steep the tea bag in hot water for 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the infused honey or tincture.
3. Enjoy while warm!

Tips for Safe Consumption

• Start with a low dose, especially if you’re new to edibles.
• Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, so be patient.
• Store your cannabis-infused drinks properly to maintain freshness.
• Always label your infused beverages to avoid accidental consumption.

Final Thoughts

Making cannabis-infused drinks at home is a fun and creative way to enjoy cannabis in a controlled and delicious way. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, energy, or a wellness boost, these recipes provide a perfect alternative to traditional consumption methods. If you're looking for premium-quality cannabis strains for your infusions, check out a high-quality cannabis store in troy to get started!