As the cannabis industry continues to grow, enthusiasts are finding new and creative ways to incorporate the plant into their daily lives. One such trend is cannabis-infused cocktails. Mixing cannabis with alcohol might seem like a dangerous combination, but when done right, it can lead to a truly unique and enjoyable experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the basics of cannabis-infused cocktail making, the best recipes to try, and tips from mixologists to ensure a successful and safe cannabis-infused cocktail experience.
The Basics of Cannabis-Infused Cocktail Making
Before diving into the best recipes, it’s essential to understand the basics of cannabis-infused cocktail making.
First and foremost, it’s important to choose the right strain of cannabis. Certain strains are better suited for use in cocktails, such as sativa strains that are known for their uplifting effects. According to a recent survey by Marijuana Business Daily, sativa strains are the most commonly used in cannabis-infused cocktail making.
Dos and Don’ts
When it comes to dosing, it’s crucial to start small and slowly work your way up. It’s easy to get carried away with cannabis-infused cocktails, but too much THC can lead to an unpleasant experience. As with all cannabis products, the effects can vary widely from person to person, so it’s essential to be mindful of your own tolerance level.
Another important consideration is the type of alcohol you’re using. Cannabis-infused alcohol is not legal in all states, so be sure to research the laws in your area. Additionally, it’s important to note that cannabis-infused alcohol can be more potent than traditional alcohol, so it’s crucial to measure your doses carefully.
Choosing the Right Strains
Right Strains for Cocktails | Source: The Cannigma
When it comes to choosing the right strains for your cannabis-infused cocktails, it’s all about flavor and effects. Some popular strains for use in cocktails include Blue Dream, Strawberry Cough, and Sour Diesel. These strains offer a unique flavor profile and effects that are perfect for mixing with alcohol.
Best Recipes for Cannabis-Infused Cocktails
Now that you have the basics down, let’s dive into some of the best recipes for cannabis-infused cocktails.
Cannabis-Infused Margarita
● 2 oz. tequila
● 1 oz. lime juice
● 1 oz. cannabis-infused simple syrup
● Salt for rimming
● Lime wedge for garnish
To make the cannabis-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, and 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, then strain and cool.
Combine tequila, lime juice, and cannabis-infused simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice. Then go ahead and garnish it with a lime wedge.
Cannabis-Infused Old Fashioned
● 2 oz. bourbon
● 1 sugar cube
● 1 dash bitters
● 1 orange peel
● 1 cannabis-infused Luxardo cherry
Here’s what you have to do to make the Luxardo cherries: add 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis to a jar of Luxardo cherries. Let sit for at least a week to infuse.
Mix together the sugar cube, bitters, and orange peel in a rocks glass. Add ice and pour in the bourbon. Stir to combine and garnish with the cannabis-infused Luxardo cherry.
Cannabis-Infused Gin and Tonic
Cannabis-Infused Gin and Tonic | Source: The Drawing Room
● 2 oz. gin
● 4 oz. tonic water
● 1 oz. cannabis-infused simple syrup
● Lime wedge for garnish
Go ahead and combine gin and cannabis-infused simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Add tonic water and stir to combine. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!
Spicy Mango and Cannabis Cocktail
● 1 oz. tequila
● 1 oz. mango juice
● 1 oz. lime juice
● 1 oz. cannabis-infused agave syrup
● 1 slice jalapeno pepper
● Mango slice for garnish
Mix up the jalapeno slice in a shaker. Add tequila, mango juice, lime juice, and cannabis-infused agave syrup.
Pineapple Express
● 2 oz. pineapple-infused rum
● 1 oz. coconut milk
● 1 oz. cannabis-infused simple syrup
● Pineapple slice for garnish
Get the pineapple-infused rum, coconut milk, and cannabis-infused simple syrup together in a shaker with ice.
Berry Bliss
● 1 oz. vodka
● 1 oz. raspberry liqueur
● 1 oz. lemon juice
● 1 oz. cannabis-infused simple syrup
● Fresh berries for garnish
In a shaker mix together vodka, raspberry liqueur, lemon juice, and cannabis-infused simple syrup and voila!
Tips from Professional Mixologist Sarah Jones
To get expert advice on cannabis-infused cocktail making, let’s take a look at a recent interview by Sarah Jones, who has been experimenting with cannabis in her cocktails for years. According to Sarah, the key to a successful cannabis-infused cocktail is proper dosing.
“It’s important to measure your doses carefully and start with small amounts,” Sarah advises. “You don’t want to overpower the drink with cannabis, but you also don’t want to skimp on it either.” Sarah also suggests experimenting with different strains to find the right flavor profile and effects for your cocktail. “Just like with traditional cocktails, the flavor profile is key. You want to find strains that complement the other ingredients in the drink.”
She recommends pairing cannabis-infused cocktails with food to enhance the experience. “Just like with wine, certain strains of cannabis can complement different types of food. It’s all about finding the right pairing.”
Key Takeaways!
Cannabis-infused cocktails are a growing trend in the cannabis industry, so what have you learned?
● When making cannabis-infused cocktails, it’s important to start small and measure doses carefully.
● Sativa strains are the most commonly used in cannabis-infused cocktail making.
● Popular strains for use in cocktails include Blue Dream, Strawberry Cough, and Sour Diesel.
● Some classic cannabis-infused cocktail recipes include Margaritas, Old Fashioneds, and Gin and Tonics.
● Creative cannabis-infused cocktail recipes include Spicy Mango and Cannabis Cocktail, Pineapple Express, and Berry Bliss.
● Expert mixologists recommend finding the right dose, experimenting with different strains, and pairing cannabis-infused cocktails with food for the best experience.
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