Canna syrup is a versatile and potent way to enjoy the effects of cannabis. Whether you’re looking to add it to your drinks, drizzle it over desserts, or use it in other recipes, learning how to make canna syrup at home is both simple and rewarding. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process step by step, so you can create your own cannabis-infused syrup with ease.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
Before diving into the canna syrup recipe, it’s important to understand that decarboxylation is a crucial first step in activating the THC or CBD in your cannabis. If you haven’t yet decarboxylated your cannabis, make sure to check out our Beginners Guide to Decarboxylation to learn how to properly prepare your cannabis. Without this step, your syrup won’t deliver the desired effects.
Ingredients and Supplies
To make canna syrup, you’ll need the following ingredients and supplies:
- 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis (for a milder syrup, you can use less)
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 cups of water
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerine (optional, for a thicker consistency)
- Flavouring (optional, such as vanilla extract, mint, or fruit juice)
- Medium saucepan
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Glass jar or bottle for storage
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Cannabis:
- If you haven’t already decarboxylated your cannabis, you’ll need to do this first. Follow the steps in our Beginners Guide to Decarboxylation to activate the cannabinoids.
2. Combine Water and Sugar:
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Add Cannabis:
- Once the sugar has dissolved, add your decarboxylated cannabis to the saucepan. Stir well to ensure the cannabis is evenly distributed in the syrup.
4. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If using, add the vegetable glycerine halfway through the simmering process to help thicken the syrup.
5. Strain the Mixture:
- After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Use a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to strain out the cannabis plant material, leaving you with a smooth, infused syrup.
6. Add Flavouring (Optional):
- If you want to add flavouring, this is the time to do it. Stir in your desired extract or juice while the syrup is still warm.
7. Store Your Canna Syrup:
- Pour the finished syrup into a glass jar or bottle. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 2-3 weeks.
Tips for Perfect Canna Syrup
- Adjust the Potency: The strength of your canna syrup depends on the amount of cannabis used and the duration of simmering. If you prefer a milder syrup, reduce the amount of cannabis or simmer for a shorter time.
- Flavour Variety: Experiment with different flavourings like citrus, mint, or herbs to create unique syrup blends.
- Use in Moderation: Canna syrup can be quite potent, so start with a small amount and adjust according to your tolerance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Decarboxylation: Without decarboxylation, your syrup won’t have the activated THC or CBD needed for the desired effects. Make sure this crucial step isn’t skipped.
- Overheating: Keep the temperature low while simmering to avoid burning the syrup or destroying cannabinoids.
- Not Stirring Enough: Regular stirring is essential to prevent sugar from burning and cannabis from clumping.
Making canna syrup at home is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy cannabis in a variety of ways. By following the steps in this guide, you can create a potent and flavourful syrup perfect for adding to drinks, desserts, and more. Remember, the key to success is starting with properly decarboxylated cannabis, so don’t forget to check out our Beginners Guide to Decarboxylation before you begin.