How To Make Cannabis Gummies (Step By Step Guide)

How To Make Cannabis Gummies

Cannabis gummies have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, becoming a coveted edible among cannabinoid enthusiasts. These tasty, chewy treats offer a discreet and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis, whether for relaxation, sleep, pain relief, or just a bit of fun. While many people search for ways to “buy THC gummies online,” many others have started learning how to make these delicious edibles at home.

*cue Redman’s “How to Roll a Blunt” in non-rhyme form *

Making your own craft gummies has advantages. You have full creative control over the ingredients, ensuring they meet your dietary preferences and quality standards. You can customize the potency and flavors to suit your tastes and needs. Plus, it can be more cost-effective than purchasing pre-made gummies once you refine your process.

Next, we’ll guide you step by step through the entire process of making your own cannabis gummies from scratch. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or a curious beginner, you’ll find this step-by-step guide helpful and easy to follow. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create your own batch of delicious, homemade cannabis gummies!

Essential Ingredients and Tools of the Trade

Just like whipping up any gourmet dish, the right components and equipment can make a significant difference in the final product. So, let’s get started with the essentials you’ll need for this DIY project.

Ingredients Needed For Making Cannabis Gummies

1. Cannabis Oil or Tincture
   • The star of the show! You’ll need a high-quality cannabis oil or tincture to infuse your gummies with THC or CBD. This will be the primary source of the cannabinoids and terpenes in your gummies. You can purchase pre-made THC oil, Delta 9 THC oil, Delta 8 THC oil, THCA oil, or CBD oil or make your own by infusing cannabis into a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
2. Gelatin or Agar-Agar (Vegan Option)
   • Gelatin is what gives gummies their signature chewy texture. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, agar-agar is a fantastic plant-based alternative. Both do the trick, but they have slightly different properties, so choose the one that fits your dietary preferences.
3. Fruit Juice or Flavoring
   • For the base flavor of your gummies, you can use any fruit juice you like. Popular choices include orange, grape, apple, and lemon. If you want more control over the flavor, you can use flavor extracts instead of juice. You are now a chemist.
4. Sweeteners
   • Depending on your taste, you can use sugar, honey, or agave syrup to sweeten your gummies. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps with the texture and consistency of the final product.
5. Citric Acid
   • A small amount of citric acid can add a pleasant tartness to your gummies and act as a preservative. This is optional but recommended for a well-rounded flavor profile.

Tools Required For Making Cannabis Gummies

1. Saucepan
   • A medium-sized saucepan will be needed to heat and mix your ingredients. 
2. Whisk
   • A whisk is essential for mixing the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a smooth and even mixture.
3. Gummy Molds
   • Silicone gummy molds are perfect for shaping your gummies. They come in various shapes and sizes. 
4. Dropper or Syringe
   • For precise dosing, a dropper or syringe is key. It allows you to control the amount of gummy mixture you pour into each mold, ensuring consistent potency across all your gummies.
5. Hat / Apron 
   • While not a requirement, you will exude the confidence of a 5 star chef with the right headwear for your domepiece. 

Preparing the Cannabis Oil

Preparing the cannabis oil is a crucial step in making your own cannabis gummies. The process involves two main stages: decarboxylation and infusion. Let’s dive into each of these stages to ensure your cannabis oil is potent and ready for gummy-making.

The Decarboxylation Process

Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to activate its psychoactive compounds. Raw cannabis contains cannabinoids in their acid forms, such as THCA and CBDA, which are not psychoactive. Heating converts these acids into THC and CBD, which are the compounds that produce the desired effects. Without decarboxylation, your cannabis oil will not be effective.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Decarb Cannabis

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 240°F (115°C). This is the optimal temperature for decarboxylation without burning the cannabis.
2. Prepare the Cannabis: Break up your cannabis buds into small, even pieces. You don’t need to grind them too fine, just enough to spread them out evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Spread on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and evenly spread the cannabis pieces on it. Make sure they are in a single layer to ensure even heating.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. Stir the cannabis every 10 minutes to ensure even decarboxylation.
5. Cool Down: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cannabis cool. It should be slightly browned and dry to the touch.

Infusing the Oil With Cannabis

Choosing the Right Oil The choice of oil for infusion depends on your personal preferences and intended use. 

• Coconut Oil: Popular for its mild flavor and high-fat content, which helps absorb more cannabinoids.
• Olive Oil: Offers a distinct flavor and is great for those who prefer a healthier option.
• Avocado Oil: Another healthy option with a high smoke point and subtle flavor.

Infusion Methods: Stovetop vs. Slow Cooker There are two primary methods to infuse your oil with cannabis: stovetop and slow cooker. Both methods are effective, but they have different time requirements and processes.

Stovetop Method

1. Combine Ingredients: Add your decarboxylated cannabis and chosen oil into a saucepan in a 1:1 ratio (one cup of oil to one cup of cannabis).
2. Heat: Place the saucepan over low heat. The oil should simmer, not boil, to prevent burning the cannabinoids.
3. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. Keep the heat low to avoid overheating.
4. Strain: After simmering, remove the mixture from heat. Use a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to strain out the plant material, leaving behind the infused oil.

Slow Cooker Method

1. Combine Ingredients: Add your decarboxylated cannabis and chosen oil into the slow cooker in a 1:1 ratio.
2. Set Temperature: Set the slow cooker to low.
3. Infuse: Let the mixture cook for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is more hands-off and reduces the risk of burning.
4. Strain: After infusing, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to remove the plant material.

Straining the Infused Oil

1. Prepare Your Strainer: Place a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer over a clean, heat-resistant container.
2. Pour the Mixture: Carefully pour the cannabis oil mixture through the strainer. Allow it to drip through naturally without pressing too hard, as this can push unwanted plant material through.
3. Store: Once strained, transfer your cannabis-infused oil to an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to use it in your gummy recipe.

Making the Gummy Mixture

With your cannabis oil prepared, it’s time to move on to the exciting part: making the gummy mixture. This process involves mixing the main ingredients to create a smooth, flavorful base and then incorporating the cannabis oil to ensure each gummy has a consistent dose.

Mixing Ingredients

Heating Fruit Juice and Sweeteners

1. Measure Your Ingredients: Start by measuring out your fruit juice and sweetener of choice. A typical ratio is 1 cup of fruit juice to 1/4 cup of sweetener. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
2. Combine in a Saucepan: Pour the fruit juice and sweetener into a medium-sized saucepan. Stir to combine.
3. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously as the mixture heats up to prevent the sweetener from burning. Heat until the mixture is hot but not boiling.

Adding Gelatin or Agar-Agar

1. Prepare the Gelatin: If using gelatin, sprinkle the gelatin powder over the heated juice mixture. The standard ratio is about 2 tablespoons of gelatin for 1 cup of liquid. If using agar-agar, follow the package instructions, usually 1 tablespoon per 1 cup of liquid.
2. Whisk Continuously: As you add the gelatin or agar-agar, whisk continuously to prevent clumping. Continue whisking until the gelatin or agar-agar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to fully activate the gelling agent and ensures a smooth texture.

Ensuring a Smooth Mixture

1. Check for Consistency: The mixture should be smooth and slightly thickened. If there are any lumps, continue whisking until they dissolve.
2. Adjust Sweetness and Flavor: Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness or flavor as needed. You can add more sweetener or a few drops of flavor extract to achieve the desired taste.

Incorporating Cannabis Oil

Properly Mixing the Oil into the Gummy Base

1. Prepare the Cannabis Oil: Measure out the desired amount of cannabis oil. The dosage will depend on your preferred potency and the concentration of your cannabis oil.
2. Slowly Add the Oil: Gradually add the cannabis oil to the gummy base while whisking continuously. This helps to ensure that the oil is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Emulsify: To achieve an even distribution, you might need to use an emulsifier like lecithin. Add a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) to the mixture and whisk thoroughly. This helps the oil blend seamlessly with the gummy base.

Ensuring Even Distribution for Consistent Dosing

1. Continuous Whisking: Keep whisking the mixture until the oil is fully incorporated. The mixture should appear uniform, with no visible separation of oil.
2. Maintain Heat: Keep the mixture warm over low heat to prevent it from setting prematurely. This will make it easier to pour into molds and ensure even distribution.

By carefully mixing your ingredients and incorporating the cannabis oil properly, you’ll create a smooth and consistent gummy base ready for molding. 

Molding and Setting the Gummies

With your gummy mixture ready, it’s time to mold and set your cannabis gummies. This step involves pouring the mixture into molds with precision and allowing the gummies to set properly to achieve the perfect texture.

Pouring the Mixture

Using a Dropper for Precision

1. Prepare Your Work Area: Set up your gummy molds on a flat, stable surface. This will ensure that the gummies set evenly.
2. Transfer the Mixture: Pour the warm gummy mixture into a bowl with a spout for easy transfer or use a large syringe or dropper for more precision.
3. Fill the Dropper: Using a dropper or syringe, draw up the gummy mixture. This tool will help you fill the molds accurately and minimize spills.
4. Fill the Molds Evenly: Carefully fill each cavity of the silicone gummy mold. Avoid overfilling to ensure uniform gummy size. If necessary, use a spatula to level off the tops.

Setting the Gummies

Refrigeration Time

1. Transfer to Refrigerator: Once all molds are filled, transfer them to the refrigerator. Be careful to keep them flat to avoid spilling the mixture.
2. Chill the Gummies: Allow the gummies to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This cooling period helps the gummies set and achieve their final chewy texture.

Checking for Firmness

1. Test a Gummy: After the chilling period, check the firmness of the gummies by gently pressing one with your finger. It should be firm and retain its shape when released.
2. Adjust Setting Time if Necessary: If the gummies are not firm enough, return them to the refrigerator for additional time, checking every 15 minutes until they reach the desired consistency.

Once the gummies are firm, you can remove them from the molds and enjoy your homemade cannabis gummies. Properly set gummies will hold their shape and provide a satisfying chew, ensuring a delightful CBD or THC edible experience.

Storing and Enjoying Your Gummies

Proper Storage Methods

Airtight Containers To maintain the freshness and potency of your cannabis gummies, store them in airtight containers. Airtight containers prevent exposure to air and moisture, which can degrade the cannabinoids and spoil the texture of the gummies. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids or plastic containers with secure seals are excellent options.

Refrigeration vs. Room Temperature

• Refrigeration: Storing your gummies in the refrigerator is often the best option. The cool temperature helps preserve their freshness and prevents them from becoming too soft or sticky. If you used perishable ingredients like fresh fruit juice, refrigeration is a must.
• Room Temperature: If you prefer to keep your gummies at room temperature, ensure they are stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. A pantry or cupboard is ideal. However, note that gummies stored at room temperature may have a shorter shelf life compared to those kept in the fridge.

Dosage and Consumption Tips

Starting with a Low Dose When it comes to cannabis edibles, it’s essential to start with a low dose, especially if you’re new to them or trying a new batch. The potency of homemade gummies can vary, so it’s wise to begin with a small amount and gradually increase it if needed. A common starting dose for beginners is 5-10 milligrams of THC.

Understanding Onset Time and Duration of Effects

• Onset Time: Edibles like cannabis gummies typically take longer to take effect compared to other forms of cannabis consumption. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the effects, depending on various factors such as metabolism, body weight, and whether you’ve eaten recently.
• Duration of Effects: The effects of cannabis edibles can last significantly longer than other consumption methods, often ranging from 4 to 8 hours. Be patient and avoid consuming more gummies until you are sure of the initial dose’s effects.

Additional Tips for Enjoyment

• Consistency is Key: Ensure each gummy has a consistent dose of cannabis to avoid any unpleasant surprises. This is why mixing the cannabis oil thoroughly into the gummy mixture is crucial.
• Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart: Keep a drink and some snacks handy. Sometimes, cannabis can cause dry mouth or an increased appetite (the munchies).
• Mind Your Setting: Enjoy your gummies in a comfortable and safe environment, especially if you are new to cannabis edibles. Being in a familiar place can help enhance your experience and reduce any potential anxiety.

Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparations, making your own cannabis gummies can sometimes come with a few hiccups. Here, we’ll address some common issues you might encounter and provide solutions to ensure your gummies turn out perfectly every time.

Gummy Texture Problems

Too Soft or Too Hard

• Too Soft: If your gummies are too soft and don’t hold their shape, you might not have used enough gelatin or agar-agar. To fix this, you can re-melt the gummy mixture and add more gelatin (or agar-agar), then pour it back into the molds to set. Another solution is to reduce the amount of liquid in your recipe.
• Too Hard: If your gummies are too hard and chewy, you might have added too much gelatin or overcooked the mixture. To remedy this, try using slightly less gelatin or shortening the cooking time when you re-make the batch. If you notice this issue while the mixture is still in the saucepan, you can add a bit more fruit juice or water to soften it.

Sticky Gummies Sticky gummies can be a result of improper storage or an imbalance in the ingredients.

• Storage Solution: Ensure your gummies are stored in an airtight container, as exposure to air and humidity can make them sticky. Dusting the gummies with a light coating of cornstarch or powdered sugar before storing can also help prevent stickiness.
• Recipe Adjustment: If stickiness is an ongoing issue, you may need to adjust the ratio of sugar to gelatin or reduce the amount of liquid slightly in your recipe.

Flavor and Potency Adjustments

Adjusting Sweetness and Tartness

• Sweetness: If your gummies are not sweet enough or too sweet, you can adjust the amount of sweetener in your recipe. For a sweeter gummy, add a bit more sugar, honey, or agave syrup. For a less sweet version, reduce the sweetener or consider using a natural sweetener like stevia.
• Tartness: If you prefer a tangier gummy, you can increase the amount of citric acid or add a bit of lemon or lime juice. If the tartness is too strong, reduce the citric acid in your next batch.

Increasing or Decreasing Cannabis Potency

• Increasing Potency: To make stronger gummies, you can either use more cannabis oil in your recipe or use a more potent cannabis oil. Be cautious with this adjustment to avoid making the gummies too strong. Always test a small dose first.
• Decreasing Potency: To reduce the potency, use less cannabis oil in your recipe or dilute the cannabis oil with a regular cooking oil before adding it to the mixture. This way, each gummy will contain a lower dose of THC or CBD.

Section 8: Legal and Safety Considerations

Making your own cannabis gummies is not only a fun and rewarding experience but also one that comes with important legal and safety considerations. It’s crucial to stay informed about the legal status of cannabis in your area and to follow safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Legal Status of Cannabis

Overview of Cannabis Laws by Region Cannabis laws vary significantly around the world and even within different regions of the same country. It’s essential to be aware of the specific regulations that apply to your location.

• United States: In the U.S., cannabis laws differ from state to state. Some states have legalized recreational and medicinal cannabis use, while others have only legalized medicinal use or have not legalized it at all. Always check your state’s current laws regarding possession, cultivation, and consumption of cannabis.
• Canada: Cannabis is legal for both recreational and medicinal use across Canada. However, there are regulations on the amount you can possess, grow, and where you can consume it.
• Europe: Cannabis laws in Europe vary widely. Some countries, like the Netherlands, have more relaxed laws, allowing for both recreational and medicinal use. Others have stricter regulations, permitting only medicinal use or banning cannabis altogether.
• Other Regions: Always research the specific laws in your country or region. Some places have very strict anti-cannabis laws, and possession or use can result in severe penalties.

Importance of Staying Informed Staying up-to-date with the latest cannabis laws in your area is crucial. Laws can change, and staying informed will help you remain compliant and avoid any legal issues. Follow local news, join cannabis advocacy groups, and consult reliable sources to stay current on cannabis regulations.

Safety Precautions

Keeping Gummies Away from Children and Pets Cannabis-infused gummies can look like regular candy, which poses a risk if they’re accidentally ingested by children or pets. To prevent this:

• Store Securely: Keep your cannabis gummies in a locked, child-proof container and store them in a location that’s out of reach and sight of children and pets.
• Label Clearly: Clearly label your containers with “Cannabis-Infused” to avoid any confusion with regular candies.

Understanding Personal Tolerance Everyone’s tolerance to cannabis varies, and it’s essential to understand your own limits to have a safe and enjoyable experience.

• Start Low, Go Slow: Begin with a low dose, especially if you’re new to cannabis edibles. Edibles can take longer to kick in compared to other forms of cannabis, sometimes up to two hours. Wait to feel the effects before considering another dose.
• Monitor Your Reaction: Pay attention to how your body responds to the gummies. If you experience any discomfort or adverse effects, reduce the dose next time or consult with a healthcare professional.
• Educate Others: If you’re sharing your homemade cannabis gummies with friends or family, inform them about the potency and recommend they start with a small dose.

RELATED: 8 Tips For New Cannabis Home Growers

Get Out There And Make Your Own Cannabis Gummies!

 We encourage you to give this DIY project a try and discover the joy of learning how to make cannabis gummies. Share your creations and experiences online with fellow enthusiasts – it’s a great way to connect and learn from each other. Additionally, exploring where to “buy THC gummies online” can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your own recipes. Happy gummy making!