Ingredients and Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 cup of corn syrup
- 1/4 cup of cannabutter (cannabis-infused butter)
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
Equipment:
- Heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Wooden spoon
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for cutting caramels
Choosing the Right Cannabis Strain
Selecting the right cannabis strain is crucial for making cannabis caramels. Different strains offer varying effects and flavors, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your preferences.
2.Cannabis Strains for Edibles: Indica-dominant strains such as Granddaddy Purple and Northern Lights are excellent for edibles because they promote relaxation and sleep, making them perfect for evening treats.
3.Best Weed Strains 2024: Keep an eye out for trending strains like Apple Fritter and Peanut Butter Breath, which are gaining popularity for their unique flavors and potent effects.
4.Strongest Weed Strains: For those seeking a powerful experience, consider using strains like Godfather OG or Strawberry Banana, known for their high THC content and intense effects.
Making Cannabutter
1.Decarboxylate the Cannabis: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Break up your cannabis into small pieces and spread it evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, to activate the THC.
2.Infuse the Butter: In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Add the decarboxylated cannabis and simmer on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth to remove plant material. Your cannabutter is now ready to use.
Recipe for Cannabis Caramels
With your cannabutter ready, it’s time to make the caramels.
1.Prepare the Baking Dish: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2.Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, cannabutter, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugars dissolve.
3.Cook the Mixture: Attach the candy thermometer to the saucepan, making sure it doesn’t touch the bottom. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it reaches 245°F (118°C). This temperature ensures the caramels will have the perfect texture.
4.Add Vanilla and Salt: Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt until well combined.
5.Pour and Cool: Pour the hot caramel mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Allow the caramels to cool at room temperature for a few hours or until set.
6.Cut and Store: Once the caramels have set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the baking dish. Cut into small squares using a sharp knife. Store the caramels in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Dosage and Consumption
When making cannabis edibles, it’s essential to consider the dosage. The potency of your cannabutter will determine the strength of your caramels. It’s always a good idea to start with a small piece and wait at least an hour before consuming more to gauge the effects.
Why Cannabis Caramels?
Cannabis caramels offer several advantages over other edibles:
1.Discreet Consumption: Caramels are easy to carry and consume discreetly, making them a convenient option for those who prefer not to smoke or vape.
2.Long-Lasting Effects: Edibles, including cannabis caramels, provide longer-lasting effects compared to smoking. The effects can last anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, depending on the dosage and individual tolerance.
3.Delicious Flavor: The sweet, buttery taste of caramels masks the earthy flavor of cannabis, making them a tasty treat even for those who are not fond of the traditional taste of marijuana.
Exploring New Strains
Remember to consume responsibly, start with a small dose, and wait to feel the effects before indulging further. Enjoy your homemade cannabis caramels, and happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
To make cannabis caramels, you’ll typically need a heavy-bottomed saucepan, a candy thermometer, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or spatula, parchment paper or candy wrappers for wrapping, and a heat-safe container for cooling the caramel mixture.
Achieving the desired texture in cannabis caramels involves careful cooking and monitoring of the caramel mixture. Use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the right temperature (usually around 245°F or 118°C) for soft caramels. Stirring consistently and not overheating the mixture are also crucial.
Yes, you can use any type of cannabis-infused butter or oil that suits your preference or dietary needs. Ensure it has been properly infused and decarboxylated to activate the cannabinoids. Adjust the amount used based on the desired potency of your caramels.
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor of your cannabis caramels by adding ingredients like sea salt for a sweet and salty combination, espresso powder for a hint of coffee flavor, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Experiment with small batches to find your favorite variation.
Store cannabis caramels in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your climate and preference. Properly stored, they can last for up to a month. Be sure to label them clearly and store them out of reach of children and pets.