Ready to craft your own cannabis-infused drinks? It all comes down to three simple stages. First, you’ll need to activate your cannabis through a process called decarboxylation. Next, you’ll create a versatile infusion, like a simple syrup or a rich, fat-based liquid. Finally, you’ll learn the art of safely dosing your drinks for a perfect experience every time.
Master these fundamentals, and you’ll unlock complete control over the potency, flavor, and cost of your beverages. Imagine whipping up everything from a calming, mellow tea to a vibrant, punchy mocktail with total confidence. This guide will show you exactly how.
Welcome to the World of Cannabis Mixology
Learning to make your own cannabis drinks isn’t just a fun new skill; it’s your ticket to taking charge of your wellness and recreational experiences. Let’s be honest—store-bought options can be a gamble. Sometimes the flavor is off, or the potency isn’t tailored to your needs. Making them at home transforms the game entirely.
Think about it: you could create a soothing bedtime tea with the precise dose to help you unwind, or mix up a batch of lively, non-alcoholic mocktails for a weekend get-together that everyone will remember.
This guide is designed to walk you through everything, step by step. We’ll break down the science into actionable insights, making you feel like a pro from day one—no chemistry degree required—just practical tips for your kitchen.
Why Bother Making Your Own Cannabis Drinks?
More and more people are discovering the joy of homemade cannabis beverages, and for good reason. It’s all about personalization and finding a more approachable, sophisticated way to consume. This isn’t just a niche trend. The global market for cannabis-infused drinks is projected to leap from USD 0.32 billion in 2024 to a staggering USD 2.9 billion by 2035.
That explosive growth, detailed in a report from Market Research Future, signals a massive shift toward enjoyable, socially integrated alternatives.
So, what’s driving the DIY movement? It boils down to a few powerful advantages:
- You’re in Charge of the Dose: Say goodbye to guesswork. You control exactly how strong each drink is, tailoring it perfectly to your tolerance and desired experience.
- It’s Cheaper: Let’s face it, pre-made cannabis drinks carry a premium price tag. Crafting your own infusions at home is significantly more cost-effective in the long run.
- Unleash Your Creativity: This is where the magic happens. You get to become a mixologist, playing with flavors, ingredients, and infusion bases to create drinks you truly love.
At its core, this guide is about mastering three simple concepts: activating your cannabis, infusing it into a liquid, and dosing your final drink safely. Think of these as the essential building blocks for all your future mixology adventures.
Once you nail these fundamentals, you’ll be unstoppable. You’ll possess the know-how to create consistent, delicious, and effective cannabis drinks right from your own kitchen. Let’s dive in.
Activating Your Cannabis: The Essential First Step
Before we can even think about infusions or recipes, there’s a crucial prep step you absolutely cannot skip: you have to “wake up” your cannabis.
If you toss raw cannabis flower into a liquid, you’ll get little more than a grassy-tasting beverage. That’s because the cannabinoids in their natural state, like THCA and CBDA, are not psychoactive. To unlock their potential, you need to apply a little heat.
This transformative process is called decarboxylation. It sounds scientific, but it’s as simple as toasting spices to release their aroma. Gentle heat converts those inactive compounds into the THC and CBD we want. Without this step, your infused drinks will have no effect.
The Classic Oven Method
The easiest and most reliable way to decarb is right in your kitchen oven. It provides consistent heat and requires no special equipment. The secret is finding the Goldilocks zone of temperature—warm enough to activate the cannabinoids, but not so hot that you destroy the delicate, flavorful compounds.
Here’s your simple toolkit:
- Cannabis Flower: If you’re starting, 3.5 grams (an eighth) is the perfect amount for your first batch.
- Baking Sheet: Any standard cookie sheet will do.
- Parchment Paper: This is non-negotiable. It prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Grinder or Scissors: You’ll need to break down the flower for even heating.
- Oven Thermometer (Optional but recommended): Most ovens are inaccurate. A simple thermometer ensures you’re hitting the precise temperature for perfect results.
Getting the temperature right is paramount. Research from the U.S. National Institutes of Health confirms that THCA begins converting to THC at approximately 220°F (104°C). That’s our bullseye.
How to Decarb Your Cannabis Perfectly
First, preheat your oven to 220°F (104°C).
While the oven warms up, break down your cannabis. You’re not aiming for a fine powder; you want a coarse, crumbly texture, similar to coffee grounds for a French press. This consistency ensures everything heats evenly without scorching.
Spread your ground cannabis onto the parchment-lined baking sheet in a thin, even layer. Make sure there are no clumps or piles.
Place the tray on the middle rack of your preheated oven and set a timer for 30 to 40 minutes. About halfway through, give the sheet a gentle shake to redistribute the cannabis and promote even toasting.
You’ll know it’s ready when the cannabis has turned a rich, golden-brown color and your kitchen has a nutty, aromatic scent.
Pro Tip: Whatever you do, don’t crank up the heat to speed things up. You’ll only destroy the very compounds you’re trying to activate. Low and slow wins the race here. Patience is your most valuable ingredient.
Once the timer dings, remove the sheet and let it cool completely. That’s it! Your cannabis is now fully activated and ready to be infused.
Alternative Methods and Quick Fixes
The oven method is a fantastic all-rounder, but if you’re aiming for absolute precision, a couple of other techniques can deliver even more consistent results.
- Sous Vide: For a truly foolproof decarb, the sous vide method offers impeccable temperature control. Vacuum-seal your ground cannabis and place it in a water bath set to 203°F (95°C) for 90 minutes. There’s zero risk of burning.
- Mason Jar: This is a great trick for minimizing the smell. Place your ground cannabis in an oven-safe mason jar, screw the lid on loosely (don’t tighten it completely), and place it on the baking sheet. This method also helps preserve more of the volatile terpenes. Use the same oven time and temperature as the classic method.
What if it doesn’t look right? If your cannabis is still green after 40 minutes, your oven likely runs cool; give it another 10-15 minutes. If it seems too dark or smells burnt, your oven is too hot. An oven thermometer will prevent this guesswork in the future.
Picking Your Infusion Method
You have your perfectly activated cannabis. Now for the creative part: deciding how to infuse it. This step is about creating the liquid base that will carry the cannabinoids into your drinks. Your choice here defines the final product—its texture, its flavor, and the types of beverages it will shine in.
We’ll focus on three powerhouse methods: cannabis-infused simple syrup, a fat-based infusion like coconut oil, and a classic alcohol tincture. Each has unique strengths, and knowing which one to choose is the key to crafting genuinely exceptional cannabis drinks.
This isn’t as complicated as it sounds. The infographic below provides a quick visual guide to the basic process for each.
As you can see, the main variables are time and temperature. Nailing that balance is what ensures your infusion is both potent and delicious.
Cannabis-Infused Simple Syrup
Every skilled bartender relies on simple syrup, and an infused version is a true game-changer for cannabis drinks. Because it’s water-soluble, it mixes seamlessly into clear beverages like sodas, iced teas, and mocktails without leaving an oily film on the surface. If you’re dreaming of a sparkling citrus spritzer or a refreshing lavender lemonade, this is your go-to infusion.
Making it is incredibly easy. You’ll need:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3.5 grams of your decarbed cannabis
Combine the water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar has completely dissolved. Now, reduce the heat to a low, gentle simmer—boiling is the enemy here. Add your decarbed cannabis and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
After infusing, let the syrup cool slightly. Then, carefully pour it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to strain out all the plant material. The result is a clean, sweet, and potent syrup, ready to elevate any drink.
Fat-Based Infusions Like Coconut Oil
Here’s a quick science lesson: cannabinoids are lipophilic, a fancy term meaning they love to bind with fat. This makes ingredients like coconut oil or MCT oil exceptional carriers for a potent infusion. An infused oil is the perfect choice for rich, creamy drinks where the fat blends right in—think lattes, decadent hot cocoa, or a nutrient-packed smoothie.
The process is similar to making simple syrup, but it takes longer for the cannabinoids to bond with the fat molecules fully. For a robust coconut oil infusion, gently heat the oil with your decarbed cannabis for 60 to 90 minutes.
A slow cooker or a double boiler is ideal for this, as they provide the low, consistent heat needed to prevent scorching, which can destroy the cannabinoids. Another major benefit is that fats are excellent at preserving the terpenes from your cannabis. Terpenes are responsible for a strain’s unique aroma and flavor, so a fat infusion helps those signature notes shine through in your final drink.
Alcohol-Based Tinctures
If you’re seeking maximum potency and the fastest onset of effects, nothing beats a traditional alcohol tincture. Using a high-proof, food-grade alcohol like Everclear allows you to strip all the beneficial compounds efficiently—cannabinoids and terpenes—from the plant material. You’re left with a highly concentrated liquid where just a few drops can dose an entire beverage.
Tinctures are ideal when you want to add effects to a drink without altering its original flavor or texture. A small amount in your morning juice or evening cocktail is all it takes.
The best part? No heat required. Combine your decarbed cannabis and high-proof alcohol in a glass jar, seal it tightly, and shake vigorously. Store it in a cool, dark place for a few weeks, shaking it daily. If you’re in a hurry, you can accelerate the process to a few hours with constant agitation, but the slow, patient method often yields a superior product.
Key Takeaway: The base you choose is everything. Use simple syrup for clear drinks, fat-based oils for creamy ones, and alcohol tinctures when you want maximum potency with minimal flavor impact.
Now, let’s compare these three bases head-to-head.
Cannabis Infusion Base Comparison
Choosing the right foundation is the most critical decision in crafting the perfect cannabis-infused drink. This table breaks down the three primary infusion bases to help you select the best one for your recipe and goals.
| Infusion Base | Best For | Average Infusion Time | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Syrup | Clear beverages (sodas, teas, cocktails) | 30 minutes | Sweet, it can have a mild herbal taste |
| Fat (Oil/Butter) | Creamy drinks (lattes, smoothies, hot cocoa) | 60-90 minutes | Rich, it carries the cannabis flavor well |
| Alcohol Tincture | Any beverage, quick dosing | 2-3 weeks (no heat) | Strong alcohol taste, very little cannabis flavor |
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference and the specific drink you’re creating. Don’t hesitate to experiment with all three to discover what works best for you.
This DIY trend is part of a larger movement. The U.S. cannabis beverages market, valued at an estimated USD 1.45 billion in 2025, is projected to hit USD 3.85 billion by 2032. This growth is fueled by shifting regulations and innovations that make cannabinoids more bioavailable, meaning our bodies can absorb them more effectively.
No matter which infusion method you choose, the final step is non-negotiable: straining. Be meticulous. Running your infusion through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh filter is essential. It removes gritty plant material, leaving you with a smooth, professional-quality base that’s a pleasure to drink.
Mastering Your Dose for a Safe Experience
This is where you transition from simply making an infusion to crafting a reliable and enjoyable experience. Dosing correctly is the single most important factor in loving your homemade cannabis drinks. Too little, and you won’t feel a thing; too much, and you risk an uncomfortable time.
The golden rule is simple and absolute: start low and go slow. Your metabolism, tolerance, and even what you ate that day can all affect your reaction. Unlike smoking, the effects of ingested cannabis can take up to two hours to fully manifest. This delay is a classic pitfall for newcomers.
Calculating the Potency of Your Infusion
While home infusions aren’t an exact science, you can get a remarkably accurate estimate of your drink’s potency. All you need is the THC percentage of your starting flower, which should be clearly listed on the packaging from your dispensary.
Here’s a straightforward formula to calculate the total milligrams (mg) of THC in your infusion:
[Grams of Cannabis] x 1,000 x [THC Percentage as a decimal] = Total THC in mg
Let’s use a practical example. Imagine you use 1 gram of cannabis that is labeled as 20% THC.
- 1 (gram) x 1,000 x 0.20 (THC %) = 200 mg of THC
This means your entire batch of syrup or oil contains roughly 200 mg of THC. If that batch produces 20 tablespoons of syrup, then each tablespoon contains about 10 mg of THC. You now have a measurable, repeatable dose for every drink you make. For a more detailed breakdown, check out our complete guide to dosing edibles.
Start With a Microdose
When trying a new infusion for the first time, always begin with a microdose. This is typically between 2.5 mg and 5 mg of THC. A dose this small allows you to safely test the effects and understand how your body responds without feeling overwhelmed.
You can always add more, but you can never take away. Wait at least two full hours after your first dose before considering a second dose. This patience is your best tool for ensuring a positive experience.
The most common mistake beginners make is impatience. They take a small dose, feel nothing after 30 minutes, and decide to have more. By the time the first dose kicks in, the second one is right on its heels, resulting in an effect that is far stronger than intended.
Recommended Starting Doses for Beginners
Navigating dosage can seem intimidating, but this table offers clear, practical guidelines for anyone new to cannabis-infused drinks. It outlines what to expect at different levels, helping you find the perfect starting point for a controlled and positive experience.
| Dosage Level (THC) | Description | Typical Effects | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 – 2.5 mg | Microdose | Mild relief of symptoms like pain and anxiety, with little to no intoxication. | First-time users or those sensitive to THC. |
| 2.5 – 5 mg | Low Dose | Noticeable symptom relief, mild euphoria, and slight impairment. | Beginners seeking gentle psychoactive effects. |
| 5 – 15 mg | Moderate Dose | Stronger euphoria, more noticeable symptom relief, and clear impairment. | Occasional consumers with some tolerance. |
| 15+ mg | High Dose | Very strong euphoric effects; significant impairment of perception. | Experienced users with a high tolerance only. |
The Importance of Labeling and Safe Storage
Finally, one of the most critical steps in home mixology is responsible storage. Once your infusion is complete, pour it into a clean, airtight container and label it immediately and clearly.
Your label must include:
- “Contains Cannabis – Adults Only“
- The date it was made.
- The estimated potency (e.g., “Approx. 10mg THC per tablespoon“).
Always store your creations well out of reach of children and pets. It’s also essential to inform any other adults in your household about the infused items to prevent accidental consumption. As noted by government bodies like Health Canada, unintentional ingestion can lead to severe adverse effects, making clear labeling a vital safety measure.
Easy Cannabis Drink Recipes to Get You Started
You’ve successfully created your infusion base and mastered the art of dosing. Now for the best part: making the drinks. This is where you get to see just how versatile your homemade infusions truly are.
Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or hosting friends for a special occasion, there’s an infused drink for every mood. These recipes are fantastic starting points—they’re simple, delicious, and the perfect launchpad for your own creative experiments.
Soothing Cannabis-Infused Chamomile Honey Tea
Perfect for a quiet evening, this gentle tea combines the natural calming properties of chamomile with the mellow effects of your cannabis-infused honey or simple syrup. It’s pure relaxation in a mug.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 chamomile tea bag
- 8 oz hot water
- 1-2 teaspoons of cannabis-infused honey or simple syrup (start with a 5mg dose)
- A slice of lemon (optional, but highly recommended)
Steep the tea bag in hot water for 5 minutes. Remove the bag, then stir in your measured dose of infused honey or syrup until it fully dissolves. A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors and perfectly balances the sweetness.
Feel free to customize this recipe. Peppermint tea offers a refreshing twist, while a cinnamon stick added during steeping creates a warmer, spicier profile.
A Quick Tip: The goal here is relaxation. Begin with a low dose and give it plenty of time to take effect before you even consider a second cup. This recipe is designed as a gentle introduction to the world of cannabis beverages.
Sparkling Raspberry Cannabis Limeade
When you’re looking for something more vibrant and social, this sparkling limeade is an absolute showstopper. It uses your infused simple syrup to create a bubbly, beautifully balanced mocktail that’s perfect for sharing.
Gather your ingredients:
- 4-5 fresh raspberries
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz cannabis-infused simple syrup (aim for a 5-7.5mg dose)
- 4 oz sparkling water or club soda
- Ice, a lime wheel, and fresh mint for garnish
In a sturdy glass, muddle the raspberries with the lime juice to release their flavor and color. Add your cannabis simple syrup and stir well. Fill the glass with ice and top it off with sparkling water.
Give it one final, gentle stir, then garnish with a fresh lime wheel and a sprig of mint. The result is a gorgeous, layered drink that tastes as incredible as it looks.
Rich Infused Coconut Milk Chai Latte
For lovers of creamy, spiced beverages, this chai latte infused with pure vanilla is pure comfort. It’s the perfect companion for a cozy morning or a decadent afternoon treat. This recipe uses a fat-based infusion, such as cannabis coconut oil, which blends seamlessly to create a luxuriously rich texture.
By the way, making a cannabis-infused olive oil at home is also fantastic for savory dishes. You might be interested in our guide on creating your own cannabis olive oil.
What you’ll need to make it:
- 1 chai tea bag or one tablespoon of loose-leaf chai
- 4 oz hot water
- 4 oz coconut milk (or your favorite milk)
- 1 teaspoon cannabis-infused coconut oil (start with a 5mg dose)
- Sweetener to taste (maple syrup or honey works great)
- A dash of cinnamon for garnish
First, create a strong chai concentrate by steeping your tea in hot water for 5-7 minutes. While it steeps, gently warm the coconut milk in a small saucepan with your cannabis coconut oil. Whisk continuously until the oil has completely melted, but do not let it boil.
Strain the tea concentrate into your favorite mug, pour in the warm, infused milk, and sweeten to your liking. For a frothy top, use a milk frother on the infused milk before pouring. A final sprinkle of cinnamon provides the perfect finishing touch.
These homemade recipes put you at the forefront of a major wellness trend. The global CBD beverage market, valued at USD 4.30 billion in 2024, is projected to soar to USD 20.66 billion by 2034. This boom, analyzed by The Brainy Insights, is driven by a demand for more effective and enjoyable wellness products. With these recipes, you have complete control over your creations, ensuring they meet your exact standards.
Common Questions About Making Cannabis Drinks
Diving into cannabis mixology is exciting, but it’s natural to have a few questions. Getting clear answers is the best way to build confidence and ensure you’re creating safe and effective drinks. Let’s address some of the most common queries.
How Should I Store My Infusions?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the potency and safety of your infusions. The primary enemies are light, air, and heat, as they can degrade cannabinoids over time.
- Simple Syrups: Store your infused simple syrup in a sealed, airtight glass jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and potent for up to one month.
- Infused Oils: For infusions like coconut oil, use an airtight container and store it in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. Refrigeration can extend its shelf life to several months.
Here’s a non-negotiable safety rule: always label your containers. Clearly write what’s inside, the date it was made, and the estimated potency. This simple action is essential for preventing accidental consumption.
How Can I Mask the Cannabis Taste?
While some people enjoy the earthy flavor of cannabis, others prefer it to take a backseat. Fortunately, masking this taste is easy with the right ingredients.
Bold, assertive flavors are your best allies. Consider ingredients that pack a punch:
- Sharp citrus, like lemon and lime
- Spicy ginger and refreshing mint
- Warm spices such as cinnamon or cardamom
Sweetness is also highly effective at balancing the herbal notes. Muddled berries in a limeade or rich chocolate in hot cocoa can easily overpower any unwanted cannabis flavor. Experimenting with these flavor combinations is one of the most enjoyable aspects of making your own infused drinks.
Is It Legal to Make Cannabis Drinks at Home?
This is a critical question, and the answer depends entirely on your location. Cannabis laws vary dramatically between states and even cities. Generally, if you live in a jurisdiction where recreational or medical cannabis is legal for adults, making your own infusions for personal use is typically permitted.
It is your responsibility to know and follow the laws in your area. Research the specific regulations regarding possession, cultivation, and consumption. Your state’s official government website on cannabis regulations is the most trustworthy source for this information. Verifying the rules with your local cannabis authority is always the smartest first step.
Ready to skip the DIY and explore professionally crafted cannabis products? Wallflower Cannabis House offers a curated selection of premium flowers, edibles, and more to elevate your experience. Visit us in-store or online to discover your new favorite.