How to Make Cannabis Caramels

Making cannabis caramels is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your own cannabis-infused caramels:

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup cannabis-infused butter or oil (see note for how to make this)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed saucepan
• Candy thermometer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Knife or kitchen shears (for cutting caramels)

Instructions

1. Prepare Cannabis-Infused Butter or Oil

If you don’t already have cannabis-infused butter or oil, you’ll need to make it first. Here’s a quick overview of how to do it:

1. Decarboxylate Your Cannabis: Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Spread your ground cannabis on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes. This process activates the THC.
2. Infuse: In a slow cooker or double boiler, combine the decarboxylated cannabis with butter or oil. Simmer on low for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove plant material.

2. Prepare Your Workspace

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
• Have your candy thermometer ready.

3. Cook the Caramel

1. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, butter, and corn syrup. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula.
2. Heat to 240°F: Continue cooking until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on the candy thermometer. This is the soft ball stage, which is ideal for caramels.

4. Add Cannabis-Infused Butter or Oil

1. Incorporate Infused Ingredient: Once the caramel mixture reaches 240°F, carefully stir in the cannabis-infused butter or oil. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up.
2. Continue Cooking: Keep cooking and stirring until the caramel reaches 250°F (121°C). This is the firm ball stage, which ensures the caramels will set properly.

5. Finish the Caramel

1. Add Flavorings: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
2. Pour and Cool: Pour the caramel mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Let it cool at room temperature until it is firm, which usually takes several hours.

6. Cut and Store

1. Cut into Pieces: Once the caramel is firm, use a knife or kitchen shears to cut it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Wrap Individually: Wrap each piece in parchment paper or wax paper to keep them fresh and prevent them from sticking together.

Tips

• Testing: If you’re unsure about the consistency, you can test the caramel by dropping a small amount into a cup of cold water. If it forms a firm ball, it’s ready.
• Infusion Dosage: Be mindful of the dosage when using cannabis-infused ingredients. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference and tolerance.

Conclusion

Making cannabis caramels at home can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By following these steps, you can create delicious, personalized treats that incorporate cannabis in a tasty and manageable way. Always remember to consume responsibly and be aware of the potency of your infused ingredients.