WEED butter.

Phase 1: Decarboxylation (Activation)

Before infusing butter, raw cannabis plant material must undergo decarboxylation using controlled heat to convert non-psychoactive THCA into active THC.

1. 01

   Preparation: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. 02

   Coarse Grind: Break down the flower coarsely (avoid grinding to a fine powder, which makes straining difficult later). Spread evenly across the baking sheet.

3. 03

   Bake: Heat for 30 to 40 minutes. The plant material should look dry and golden-brown, emitting a toasted aroma without burning.

4. 04

   Cool: Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before handling.

Phase 2: The Infusion Process

Adding water to the butter-and-cannabis mixture acts as a natural buffer, preventing the butter from scorching and helping wash away water-soluble impurities and excess plant chlorophyll.

1. 01

   Melt: Combine the water and butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan or double boiler over low heat until the butter is completely melted.

2. 02

   Combine: Stir in the decarboxylated cannabis.

3. 03

   Simmer: Maintain a low, steady simmer—ideally between 160°F and 180°F (70°C–80°C)—for 2 to 3 hours. Stir periodically. Crucial: The mixture should never reach a rolling boil, as excessive heat degrades cannabinoids and yields a harsh, bitter flavor profile.

Phase 3: Straining & Separation

1. 01

   Initial Strain: Remove the pan from the heat. Place a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a nut-milk bag over a heat-safe glass container or bowl.

2. 02

   Express Liquid: Pour the mixture through the cloth. Carefully gather the corners of the cloth and squeeze to extract all remaining butter liquid from the plant material. (Discard the spent plant matter).

3. 03

   Cool & Separate: Cover the container and place it in the refrigerator overnight. The butter will solidify into a solid layer on top, while the water and residual impurities settle to the bottom.

4. 04

   Final Cleanup: Run a knife around the edge of the container, pop out the solid block of cannabutter, and scrape away any cloudy residue from the bottom. Pat dry.