Cannabis-infused drinks are a fantastic and refreshing way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without smoking. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or new to cannabis, learning how to make cannabis drink mixes at home opens up a world of delicious possibilities.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from preparing your cannabis to crafting your own delightful beverages. We'll cover the essential steps:

• Decarboxylation: Activating the compounds in your cannabis.
• Infusion: Choosing the right method, like making cannabis-infused simple syrup or oil.
• Mixing: Combining your infusion with your favorite drinks.
• Dosing: Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Let's explore cannabis-infused drinks.

The Rise of Cannabis Beverages

The world of cannabis consumption is constantly evolving, and infused beverages are leading the charge. Why are so many people choosing to sip their cannabis? The primary benefits are clear and compelling.

• Smoke-Free Experience: For those who prefer to avoid inhaling anything, whether for health or personal preference, drinks provide an excellent alternative to smoking or vaping.
• Discretion: Unlike the lingering scent of smoke, a cannabis-infused drink is virtually odorless, making it a perfect choice for social settings or enjoying a relaxing moment without drawing unwanted attention.
• Controlled Dosing: When you make your own cannabis drinks, you have the power to accurately measure and control the THC/CBD dosage in each serving. This allows for a predictable and manageable experience, which is particularly beneficial for those new to cannabis. Commercial cannabis beverages also offer a consistent, reliable dose.
• Long-Lasting Effects: While smoking or vaping provides almost immediate effects, drinks typically take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in, with effects lasting anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. This prolonged experience can be ideal for sustained relaxation or a mellow evening.

The Foundation: Preparing Your Cannabis for Infusion

Before you can create delicious cannabis beverages, there's a crucial step you can't skip: decarboxylation. This simple process is the key to open uping the full potential of your cannabis.

What is Decarboxylation and Why is it Crucial?

Decarboxylation, or "decarbing," is a chemical reaction that activates the cannabinoids in raw cannabis. In its natural state, cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which are non-intoxicating. Applying heat converts these into the active forms, THC and CBD, that interact with your body's endocannabinoid system. Without this step, your homemade cannabis drink mixes won't have the desired effects. For a deeper dive into the science, you can read more about decarboxylation in this Leafly article.

Essential Steps for Decarboxylation

1. Grind your flower: Start by grinding your cannabis buds with a hand grinder. Aim for a medium-fine consistency, similar to coarse oregano. Avoid grinding it too finely, as this can make it difficult to strain later.
2. Spread evenly on parchment paper: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents your cannabis from sticking and makes cleanup easier. Spread the ground cannabis evenly across the baking sheet in a thin layer.
3. Bake at the correct temperature: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Once preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring gently every 10-15 minutes to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. You'll notice the cannabis changing color to a light brown and becoming aromatic.
4. Cool completely before infusing: Once the decarboxylation process is complete, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cannabis cool down completely.

By following these steps, you ensure your cannabis is perfectly activated and ready to infuse into your homemade drinks.

How to Make Cannabis Drink Mixes: Choosing Your Infusion Method

With your cannabis decarboxylated, it's time to infuse it into a base that can be easily mixed into drinks. Since cannabinoids like THC and CBD are fat-soluble, they need a carrier to dissolve properly. Here are the most popular methods:

Cannabis-Infused Simple Syrup & Honey

Cannabis-infused simple syrup is a versatile and popular choice for making cannabis drink mixes. It's easy to make and can be added to almost any beverage, hot or cold. The sugar and water base makes it ideal for lemonades, teas, and mocktails. Similarly, cannabis-infused honey can be made by simmering decarboxylated cannabis with honey, offering a natural sweetener with added benefits.

• Pros: Very versatile, easy to mix into most drinks, can mask cannabis flavor, relatively long shelf life.
• Cons: Primarily sugar-based, so not ideal for those avoiding sugar.

Cannabis-Infused Oils (Coconut Oil)

Cannabis-infused oils, particularly coconut oil, are excellent for incorporating cannabis into creamy or hot drinks. Coconut oil is a popular choice due to its high fat content, which readily binds with cannabinoids. To make it, simply simmer decarboxylated cannabis in coconut oil over low heat, then strain. This infused oil works wonderfully in smoothies, coffee, or hot chocolate.

• Pros: Great for fat-rich drinks, potent, relatively easy to make.
• Cons: Can separate in water-based drinks without an emulsifier, may impart a slight cannabis flavor.

Comparing Infusion Methods

Here's a quick comparison of the most common methods for how to make cannabis drink mixes:

Method	Best For	Pros	Cons
Simple Syrup/Honey	Cold drinks, teas, mocktails	Versatile, easy to mix, good flavor masking	High in sugar
Oils (Coconut, etc.)	Lattes, smoothies, hot chocolate	Potent, good for creamy drinks	Can separate in water-based drinks
Tinctures (Alcohol-based)	Cocktails, quick sublingual use	Fast-acting, long shelf life	Strong alcohol taste

Crafting Your Perfect Pour: Recipes and Flavor Tips

Now for the fun part: making your drinks! The key to a great cannabis beverage is balancing the flavor of your infusion with the other ingredients.

Tips for Great-Tasting Cannabis Drinks

• Citrus is Your Friend: Lemon, lime, and orange can effectively mask the earthy taste of cannabis.
• Herbs and Spices: Mint, ginger, and cinnamon are excellent for adding complexity and covering up any unwanted flavors.
• Sweeteners: Honey, agave, or maple syrup can complement the cannabis flavor profile.
• Know Your Terpenes: Different cannabis strains have different terpene profiles, which affect their taste and aroma. Experiment to find strains that pair well with your favorite drinks.

Easy & Popular Cannabis Drink Recipes

Here are a few simple recipes to get you started:

• Cannabis-Infused Lemonade:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 cup sugar, 4 cups water, and your desired dose of cannabis-infused simple syrup.
  • Instructions: Combine sugar and 1 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves to create a simple syrup. Let it cool. In a large pitcher, mix the lemon juice, the remaining 3 cups of water, and your homemade simple syrup. Add your cannabis-infused syrup, stir well, and serve over ice with a lemon slice.

• Soothing Cannabis Tea:

  • Ingredients: Your favorite tea bag (chamomile, peppermint, or black tea work well), hot water, and cannabis-infused honey or a splash of infused milk/cream.
  • Instructions: Steep your tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes. Remove the tea bag and stir in your cannabis-infused honey or cream until fully dissolved. Add a slice of lemon or a cinnamon stick for extra flavor.

• Energizing Cannabis Smoothie:

  • Ingredients: 1 cup of your favorite fruit (like berries or banana), 1/2 cup of yogurt or a milk alternative, a handful of spinach, and 1-2 teaspoons of cannabis-infused coconut oil.
  • Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. This is a great way to start your day with a dose of nutrients and cannabinoids.

• Creative Cannabis Mocktails:

  • Ingredients: Sparkling water, your choice of fruit juice (like cranberry or pineapple), and cannabis-infused simple syrup.
  • Instructions: Fill a glass with ice. Add a shot of your cannabis syrup, top with fruit juice and sparkling water. Garnish with a fruit wedge or fresh herbs for a festive, non-alcoholic treat.

Sip Safely: Dosing, Storage, and Important Considerations

Enjoying your homemade cannabis drinks responsibly is key. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

How to Accurately Dose Your Homemade Drinks

• Start Low and Go Slow: This is the golden rule of edibles and drinkables. Begin with a small dose, such as 2.5-5mg of THC, and wait at least two hours to feel the full effects before considering more. The effects of edibles can be more potent and longer-lasting than smoking.
• Calculate Potency: When making your own infusions, it's important to estimate the potency. You can find online calculators to help you determine the approximate THC or CBD content per serving based on the strength of your starting material.
• Know Your Tolerance: Everyone's body reacts differently to cannabis. Pay attention to how you feel and adjust your dosage accordingly for future use.

Storing Your Infusions and Legal Guidelines

• Refrigerate Perishables: Any drink made with fresh ingredients like milk or juice should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days.
• Store Infusions Properly: Keep your cannabis-infused oils, syrups, or tinctures in clearly labeled, airtight containers in a cool, dark place. This helps preserve their potency and freshness.
• Keep Out of Reach: Always store cannabis products securely and out of the reach of children and pets.
• Know the Law: Be aware of your local regulations regarding cannabis possession and consumption. In California, you must be 21 or older to purchase and consume cannabis products.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Cannabis Drinks

How long do the effects of cannabis drinks typically last?

The effects of cannabis-infused drinks can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to begin, and they can last for 4 to 8 hours, or even longer, depending on the dose and your individual metabolism. It's always best to start with a low dose and wait to see how you feel.

Can I mix cannabis-infused drinks with alcohol?

It is generally not recommended to mix cannabis and alcohol. Combining them can intensify the effects of both substances, leading to a more unpredictable and potentially unpleasant experience. For your safety, it's best to enjoy them separately.

What are the best beverages to use as a base?

The best base is one you enjoy! Lemonade, iced tea, smoothies, coffee, and sparkling water are all excellent choices. The key is to choose flavors that complement or mask the taste of cannabis, depending on your preference. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect drink.

Lift Your Beverage Game

Making cannabis drinks at home is a creative and rewarding way to enjoy cannabis. By understanding decarboxylation, choosing the right infusion method, and starting with a low dose, you can craft delicious and effective beverages custom to your preferences. For those in the Sacramento area looking for premium flower to start their infusion journey, Fiori Delivery offers a curated selection of top-quality cannabis products.

Explore our menu of premium flower and edibles to get started.

Fiori Delivery proudly serves Sacramento, Elk Grove, Roseville, and surrounding areas with fast and discreet cannabis delivery.