Canna-butter—the fusion of cannabis and butter—is the cornerstone of nearly every cannabis-infused recipe, especially during the holiday season. For home cooks and culinary enthusiasts, mastering this simple infusion unlocks an entire world of creative, elevated dishes. From mashed potatoes to gravy and baked treats, canna-butter ensures each bite delivers both flavor and the gentle effects of cannabis.

What Exactly Is Canna-Butter?

Canna-butter is butter infused with cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Since cannabinoids are fat-soluble, butter serves as an ideal base to absorb and retain them during the infusion process. However, before infusion, the cannabis must first undergo decarboxylation—a heating step that activates the plant’s compounds. Raw cannabis contains THCA and CBDA, which convert to THC and CBD when heated. Without this process, the butter won’t produce any noticeable effects.

How to Make Canna-Butter at Home

Step 1: Decarboxylate the Cannabis.
Preheat the oven to about 230–245°F. Break apart dried cannabis buds and spread them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Heat for roughly 40 to 45 minutes, stirring halfway through. This step ensures cannabinoids are fully activated.

Step 2: Melt and Infuse.
In a small pot, combine one cup of unsalted butter with one to one and a half cups of water. The water helps regulate the temperature to prevent burning. Add 7–10 grams of the decarbed cannabis and maintain a gentle simmer—around 185–200°F—for two to three hours. Stir occasionally, being careful not to let the mixture boil.

Step 3: Strain and Store.
After simmering, allow the mixture to cool slightly and strain it through cheesecloth into a heatproof container. Refrigerate until solid, then remove the separated water layer. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for several months.

Understanding Potency and Dosing

One of the most important aspects of canna-butter is dosing. For many consumers, 5–10 mg of THC per serving is standard, though tolerance varies. Potency depends on the strength of the cannabis used and how much is infused. For example, 10 grams of cannabis with 20% THC contains around 2,000 mg of THC total. After natural losses during heating and infusion, expect roughly 1,400–1,600 mg per cup of butter. A teaspoon might contain around 30 mg of THC, so it’s wise to start small and adjust recipes accordingly.

Edibles take longer to take effect—anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours—and can last several hours, making it crucial to label dishes clearly and keep infused foods away from children and pets.

Why Canna-Butter Belongs in Holiday Cooking

During Thanksgiving and other festive gatherings, canna-butter offers cooks a simple way to incorporate cannabis into traditional dishes. Add it to stuffing, mashed potatoes, or gravy, or use it to finish roasted vegetables and desserts. It provides consistent dosing while allowing cooks to keep classic flavors intact.

Dairy-free options such as ghee or coconut oil also work beautifully for those with dietary preferences. The key is low, slow heat and careful portioning—ensuring every holiday meal remains both flavorful and enjoyable.