Making your own cannabis gummies at home is easier than you might think. These tasty treats offer a discreet and enjoyable way to experience the benefits of cannabis without the need to smoke or vape. Plus, controlling the dosage is simple when you make them yourself.
Our easy cannabis gummy recipe uses straightforward ingredients and minimal equipment, perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun edible option or a consistent way to dose, these gummies deliver a perfect balance of flavor and potency.
Let’s dive into crafting delicious, chewy cannabis gummies that you can customize to your taste and strength preferences. With this recipe, you’ll have a reliable go-to for homemade edibles that impress every time.
Ingredients
To craft our easy cannabis gummy recipe, having the right ingredients on hand is crucial. Each component plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and potency.
Cannabis Extract or Cannabutter
For potency and consistency, we recommend using cannabis extract, such as THC or CBD tinctures or cannabutter. Cannabutter offers a rich infusion ideal for gummies, but extracts provide precise dosage control.
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Cannabis Extract | Liquid form, easy to dose, works well with gelatin |
| Cannabutter | Requires melting, adds buttery taste |
Gelatin or Vegan Gelatin Substitute
Gelatin forms the gummy’s structure. Choose unflavored gelatin for a classic chew or a vegan gelatin substitute like agar-agar or pectin for a plant-based option.
- Use about 3 tablespoons of gelatin per batch.
- For vegan options, match the same volume but follow the substitute’s specific setting instructions.
Fruit Juice or Flavoring
The base flavor comes from fruit juice or concentrated flavorings. We prefer 100% natural fruit juice such as:
- Orange
- Cherry
- Pineapple
- Berry blends
This not only adds vibrant color but complements the cannabis flavor with fruity sweetness.
Sweeteners
To enhance taste, add a sweetener. Options include:
- Honey for natural sweetness and slight floral notes
- Agave syrup for a mild, neutral taste
- White or brown sugar for classic gummy sweetness
Adjust sweetness to taste but start with 1/4 to 1/2 cup per batch.
Citric Acid or Flavor Enhancers
For a refreshing tartness and to balance sweetness, include citric acid or a few drops of lemon juice. This step enhances the overall flavor profile, making the gummies more enjoyable.
- Use about 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid per batch.
- Add gradually, tasting as you go.
Optional Add-ins (Vitamin C, Coloring, etc.)
Customize your gummies with optional boosters such as:
- Vitamin C powder to support immunity and add mild tartness
- Food-grade coloring to brighten gummies naturally or artificially
- Flavor extracts like vanilla or mint for unique twists
These extras help personalize your cannabis gummies to fit your preferences perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To create perfect cannabis gummies at home, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and consistent results. Here is what we need to make this process easy and efficient.
Saucepan
A small to medium-sized saucepan is essential for gently heating our ingredients without burning or overcooking. We recommend using a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly. This helps dissolve gelatin or agar and blends the cannabis extract uniformly for consistent potency in each gummy.
Silicone Gummy Molds
Using Silicone Gummy Molds guarantees easy removal of our gummies once set. These molds come in various shapes and sizes allowing us to customize our edibles for both presentation and dosage control. We prefer molds that are flexible, food-safe, and dishwasher-friendly for simple cleaning.
Mixing Bowls
We use heat-resistant mixing bowls to combine our wet and dry ingredients smoothly. Glass or stainless steel bowls work best as they handle temperature changes without cracking. Having separate bowls for wet mix, dry mix, and for melting cannabis butter or extract keeps our workflow organized.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurement is crucial for balancing flavor and potency. Our set of standard measuring cups and spoons lets us accurately portion gelatin, sweeteners, fruit juices, and cannabis extract. Consistency in measurement ensures each batch matches our desired effect and taste perfectly.
| Equipment | Purpose | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Saucepan | Heating and dissolving ingredients | Heavy-bottomed, even heat distribution |
| Silicone Gummy Molds | Shaping and setting gummies | Flexible, food-safe, dishwasher-safe |
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing wet and dry ingredients | Heat-resistant, glass or stainless steel |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Measuring precise ingredient quantities | Standardized markings for accuracy |
Dropper or Spoon for Filling Molds
To fill our molds cleanly and avoid waste, we use a dropper or a small spoon. Droppers work especially well for small mold cavities, allowing us to control volume and fill each gummy evenly. Using this tool helps maintain consistent dosing across all gummies in the batch.
Preparation
To make cannabis gummies perfectly, each step in the preparation process must be precise. We guide you through crucial tasks like decarboxylation, preparing your cannabis infusion, and measuring ingredients accurately to ensure consistent potency and delicious flavor.
Decarboxylating Cannabis (if using flower)
Decarboxylation activates the cannabis by converting THCA into psychoactive THC. Without this step, our gummies won’t deliver the desired effects.
- Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C) for even heating.
- Break cannabis flower into small pieces, avoiding grinding into powder.
- Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, gently stirring every 10 minutes to expose all surfaces.
- Remove and let cool before using in the infusion process.
“Decarbing is the foundation for potent edibles — it unlocks cannabis’s true potential.”
Preparing Cannabis Extract or Infused Butter
For consistent dosage and smooth mixing, prepare your infusion carefully:
- Infused Butter:
- Melt 1 cup unsalted butter in a saucepan on low heat.
- Add your decarboxylated cannabis (typically 7-10 grams for a mild batch).
- Simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- Strain through cheesecloth to remove plant material.
- Cool and store in the fridge until needed.
- Cannabis Oil Extract:
- Use a cannabis tincture or prepared oil with known potency.
- Measure dosage carefully based on concentration.
- Mix directly with other ingredients if it’s oil-based.
| Infusion Type | Recommended Amount of Cannabis | Simmer Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butter Infusion | 7 to 10 grams (flower) | 2-3 hours | Stir often for even potency |
| Oil Extract | Variable (check potency) | N/A | Use precise measuring tools |
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measuring preserves potency and ensures consistent texture in every batch. Here’s what we recommend:
- Use digital scales for cannabis and butter to achieve exact weights.
- Use measuring spoons and cups specifically for gelatin, sweeteners, and juice.
- Measure liquids with a clear graduated cup for precision.
- Always double-check quantities before combining ingredients.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tool | Suggested Measurement Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cannabis (flower) | Digital scale (grams) | 7-10 grams for mild potency |
| Butter or Oil | Digital scale (grams/ml) | 1 cup butter or equivalent oil volume |
| Gelatin | Measuring spoons (tablespoons) | 3 tablespoons for firm gummies |
| Fruit juice | Graduated measuring cup | ½ cup natural juice for flavor |
| Sweetener (honey/agave) | Measuring spoons | 2 tablespoons to balance tartness and sweetness |
| Citric Acid/Lemon juice | Measuring spoons | ½ to 1 teaspoon for refreshing tartness |
Accurate measuring ensures each batch is just right for delicious and potent cannabis gummies.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create easy cannabis gummies with consistent potency and delightful flavor. Our method ensures perfect texture and accurate dosing every time.
Making the Gummy Mixture
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 1 cup of natural fruit juice and 2 tablespoons of sweetener like honey or agave syrup.
- Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring gently until the sweetener fully dissolves.
- Gradually sprinkle 3 tablespoons of gelatin (or vegan substitute) into the warm liquid while whisking continuously to avoid clumps.
- Continue to whisk and heat for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the gelatin fully blooms and the solution thickens slightly without boiling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat once the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
Incorporating Cannabis Extract
- Allow the gummy base to cool for about 1-2 minutes to avoid degrading the cannabis extract.
- Measure your decarboxylated cannabis extract or cannabutter carefully. Use 1-2 teaspoons depending on desired potency.
- Stir the cannabis extract or cannabutter thoroughly into the gummy mixture until fully incorporated.
- Add optional ingredients here such as 1/2 teaspoon of citric acid for tartness, or a few drops of food coloring for vibrancy.
- Mix well ensuring even distribution of cannabis throughout the gummy base for consistent dosing.
Pouring Mixture into Molds
- Prepare silicone gummy molds on a flat surface for easy filling.
- Using a dropper or small spoon, carefully fill each mold cavity with the cannabis gummy mixture.
- Fill molds evenly and avoid overfilling to ensure uniform size and dosing.
- Tap the mold tray gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles and smooth the surface of the gummies.
Setting and Cooling Gummies
- Place the filled molds into the refrigerator.
- Allow gummies to set completely for at least 30-60 minutes or until firm to the touch.
- Once set, carefully pop gummies out of the silicone molds.
- Store gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dissolving ingredients | 2-3 minutes | Medium-low heat | Do not boil |
| Cooling before add-ins | 1-2 minutes | Warm but not hot | Preserve cannabinoids |
| Setting gummies | 30-60 minutes | Refrigerated (40°F) | Ensure firm texture |
| Storage duration | Up to 2 weeks (fridge) | 40°F | Use airtight container |
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is essential to maintain the potency, texture, and flavor of our cannabis gummies. Understanding how to store them can extend their shelf life significantly while preserving their quality.
Best Containers for Storage
Choosing the right containers keeps our cannabis gummies fresh and avoids contamination or moisture buildup. We recommend:
- Airtight containers
Prevent exposure to air which can degrade cannabinoids and dry out gummies.
- Glass jars with tight-sealing lids
These avoid chemical leaching and preserve flavor better than plastic.
- Silicone or food-grade plastic containers
If glass is unavailable, opt for BPA-free materials to ensure safety.
- Use parchment paper or wax paper sheets between layers when stacking gummies to prevent sticking.
| Container Type | Benefits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Airtight Jar | Preserves flavor and potency | Avoid sunlight exposure |
| BPA-Free Plastic Container | Lightweight and airtight | Choose food-grade only |
| Silicone Container | Flexible and non-stick | Ideal for travel |
| Parchment/Wax Paper | Prevents sticking | Use between gummy layers |
Refrigeration vs Room Temperature
The decision between refrigerating or storing at room temperature impacts shelf life and texture:
| Storage Method | Ideal Conditions | Shelf Life | Texture Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cool 35°F to 45°F (2°C to 7°C), dark | Up to 4 weeks | Firmer texture, less sticky |
| Room Temperature | Cool, dry, away from light & heat | 1 to 2 weeks | Softer, may get sticky |
Tip: If storing for longer than two weeks, freezing is recommended. Use airtight containers and thaw gummies at room temperature before use to avoid moisture condensation.
In cool environments, gummies retain their color and potency without becoming tacky. Warm or humid conditions accelerate degradation and soften gummies, reducing their shelf life and making dosing inconsistent.
By following these guidelines for Storage and Shelf Life, we ensure our cannabis gummies remain delicious, potent, and ready to enjoy whenever we want.
Dosage Tips and Safety
When making Cannabis Gummies, understanding and controlling the dosage is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Let’s explore how to calculate the precise dosage per gummy and follow important consumption guidelines to ensure safety.
Calculating Dosage per Gummy
Accurate dosage calculation ensures that each gummy delivers a consistent amount of cannabis, helping us manage our intake effectively. Follow these steps:
- Determine Total THC or CBD Content
Confirm the potency of your cannabis extract or cannabutter. This is usually stated in milligrams (mg) of THC or CBD per gram or per milliliter.
- Measure Total Cannabis Used
Note the total quantity of cannabis concentrate added to the gummy mixture (in grams, milliliters, or teaspoons).
- Calculate Total Cannabinoids in Recipe
Multiply the potency by the total cannabis amount to find the total milligrams of cannabinoids in the full batch.
- Count Total Gummies Molded
Keep track of how many gummies you mold in a batch.
- Divide to Find Dosage per Gummy
Use the formula:
[
\text{Dosage per gummy (mg)} = \frac{\text{Total cannabinoids in mg}}{\text{Number of gummies}}
]
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Potency | Example: 20mg THC per 1g extract | Check product labeling |
| 2. Total cannabis used | Example: 0.5g of extract | Amount added to recipe |
| 3. Total cannabinoids | 20mg x 0.5g = 10mg total THC | Total potency in batch |
| 4. Number of gummies | Example: 20 gummies | Molds filled |
| 5. Dosage per gummy | 10mg ÷ 20 = 0.5mg THC per gummy | Individual gummy strength |
Example: If we use 0.5g of 20mg THC extract and make 20 gummies, each gummy contains 0.5mg THC. Adjust your cannabis amount or mold quantity according to your preferred dose.
Important Consumption Guidelines
Our safety and enjoyment depend on mindful consumption of cannabis gummies. Keep these guidelines in mind:
- Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a low dosage (2.5 to 5mg THC) especially for beginners. Wait at least 1 to 2 hours before consuming more to gauge effects.
- Avoid Mixing with Alcohol or Other Substances: Cannabis interacts with other substances and can increase impairment.
- Label Your Gummies Clearly: Store gummies in a childproof container with clear labeling to avoid accidental ingestion.
- Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Cannabis edibles can be mistaken for regular candy and pose serious risks.
- Know Your Limits: Everyone metabolizes cannabis differently. Adjust dosage based on your tolerance, experience, and the gummy potency.
- Avoid Driving or Operating Machinery: Do not drive or use heavy machinery for at least 6 hours after consuming edibles.
- Store Safely: Follow proper storage tips from the previous section to preserve potency and avoid accidental consumption.
By following precise dosage calculations and responsible consumption guidelines we can create a safer and more controlled cannabis gummy experience for ourselves and others.
Conclusion
Making cannabis gummies at home is a rewarding way to enjoy personalized edibles with precise control over flavor and potency. With just a few simple ingredients and the right tools, we can create tasty, discreet treats that fit our lifestyle and preferences.
By paying attention to proper preparation, storage, and dosage, we ensure a safe and enjoyable experience every time. Homemade gummies offer flexibility and consistency that commercial products often can’t match, making them an excellent option for both newcomers and seasoned cannabis users alike.
Let’s embrace the process and enjoy crafting our own delicious cannabis gummies whenever we want.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of making cannabis gummies at home?
Making cannabis gummies at home offers discreet consumption, easy dosage control, customizable flavors, and cost savings. It avoids smoking or vaping and allows users to tailor potency and taste to personal preference.
What ingredients do I need to make cannabis gummies?
You need cannabis extract or cannabutter, gelatin or a vegan gel substitute, natural fruit juices, a sweetener like honey or agave, and optional ingredients like citric acid, vitamin C powder, or food coloring for flavor and customization.
What equipment is essential for making cannabis gummies?
Key tools include a heavy-bottomed saucepan, silicone gummy molds, heat-resistant mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, and a dropper or small spoon for filling molds evenly.
How do I activate cannabis for gummies?
You activate cannabis through decarboxylation, which involves gently heating the cannabis flower to convert inactive compounds into active THC or CBD, making the gummies effective.
Can I customize the flavor and potency of my gummies?
Yes, you can adjust flavors using different fruit juices and sweeteners and control potency by varying the amount of cannabis extract or cannabutter.
How long do homemade cannabis gummies last?
Stored in airtight containers, gummies last 1-2 weeks at room temperature, up to 4 weeks refrigerated, and longer if frozen. Proper storage preserves potency and texture.
What are some tips for dosing cannabis gummies safely?
Calculate total THC/CBD used and divide by the number of gummies. Start with a low dose, avoid alcohol, clearly label gummies, and keep them away from children and pets.
Can I use vegan alternatives for gelatin in gummies?
Yes, agar-agar or pectin can substitute gelatin to create vegan-friendly cannabis gummies without sacrificing texture.
How should I store cannabis gummies to maintain freshness?
Store gummies in airtight containers, preferably refrigerated to extend shelf life and maintain firmness. Freeze for long-term storage with proper thawing before use.