The Ultimate Cannabis Chocolate Recipe

Chocolate has long been a go-to treat for its rich flavor, smooth texture, and mood-boosting qualities. When in search of a way to elevate that indulgence, cannabis chocolate combines the soothing effects of chocolate with the potential benefits of cannabis. If dispensaries aren't available to you, or you just enjoy cooking, knowing how to make cannabis chocolate can be the first step in enjoying a simple infused treat or elevating other chocolatey recipes. 

Why Make Cannabis Chocolate?

For some, edible cannabis chocolate offers a perfect smoke-free, discreet experience, which may be preferable for certain situations. It combines the therapeutic potential of cannabis with the possible mood boost from chocolate. 

In addition, cannabis edibles, like infused chocolate, allow patients to experience a gradual onset of effects that often last longer than smoking or vaping. Just how long edibles last, generally, can vary by consumer but can be upwards of a few hours. Edibles tend to be a go-to option for patients seeking sustained relief.

Making cannabis chocolate also allows patients to customize the recipe and better control the dosage. Some prefer a low-dose option for mild symptoms, like stress or signs of anxiety. Others may prefer a more potent blend for more effective symptom management, such as with chronic pain.

Overall, there are plenty of reasons to make a chocolatey cannabis treat. What reason resonates most will vary by patient.

What You'll Need to Make Cannabis Chocolate

Making cannabis chocolate at home is simple. Having the right tools and ingredients ensures a smooth process. Here’s a quick rundown of what to grab.

1. Start with cannabis flower or a concentrate. Both can work, but the flower must first be decarboxylated to activate its cannabinoids.
2. If using flower, a weed grinder is also necessary to ensure an even consistency.
3. A double boiler helps prevent the chocolate from burning while melting. If you don't have one, a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water can work just as well.
4. Silicone molds make it easy to create weed chocolate bars in whatever shape or size you prefer. If molds aren't available, a parchment-lined baking sheet will do the job.
5. A kitchen scale and measuring cups will help ensure proper dosing and ingredient ratios.
6. Lastly, a sieve or mesh strainer can be used to break up cocoa powder clumps and create a smooth, consistent chocolate base.

Once your chocolate is ready, an airtight container will be handy for storage to maintain freshness.

How Much Weed Do You Need?

This cannabis chocolate recipe calls for a set amount of cannabis-infused butter or oil. Depending on the recipe, a few grams to over a full 1/8th of flower can be used. The infusion’s potency can vary depending on how strong the butter or oil is. So, if you're new to edibles, start with smaller servings. Even experienced consumers should remain cautious, as edibles often produce longer-lasting and more intense effects than other consumption methods.

An edible calculator may make estimating the THC or CBD content in each serving easier. That way, consumers can avoid over-indulging and have better control over the experience.

Cannabis Chocolate: The Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• ½ cup cannabis-infused butter or coconut oil (softened, not melted)
• 1 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• ⅓ cup sweetener (sugar, maple syrup, or sweetener of choice)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but cuts down on bitterness)
• ⅛ tsp sea salt

Optional Add-Ins:

• ¼ - ½ cup nuts, seeds, or dried fruit (e.g., almonds, pecans, sunflower seeds, hemp seeds, dried cranberries, dried blueberries)
• Coconut flakes or chocolate chips (for texture)
• Nut butter (e.g., peanut butter, hazelnut butter)
• Whatever sounds good!

This version ensures a solid, flavorful cannabis chocolate that’s neither too bitter nor too sweet. It allows personalization through the optional add-ins without throwing off the ratios.

Easy Dietary Swaps

Since this cannabis chocolate recipe is so customizable, it can also fit various dietary needs. There are a few simple swaps to consider, whether aiming for a vegan, gluten-free, kosher, or halal-friendly option.

• Vegan/Plant-Based

Use cannabis-infused coconut oil instead of butter. Likewise, opt for maple syrup, a plant-based sweetener, or a certified vegan cane sugar.

• Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that each ingredient comes from a dedicated gluten-free facility. Also, make sure any optional add-ins (like chocolate chips) are certified gluten-free.

• Kosher / Halal

Choose certified kosher or halal cocoa powder and sweeteners. Many nut-based add-ins, like almonds or sunflower seeds, are compliant, but always confirm with the product labeling to be sure.

• Nut Allergies

Skip nuts altogether or swap them with seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or hemp seeds.

• Sugar-Free Options

Use stevia, monk fruit, or sugar-free maple syrup for a lower-sugar version. These sweeteners maintain flavor without altering the chocolate’s texture.

How to Make Cannabis Chocolate

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make smooth, delicious cannabis chocolate at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Cannabis-Infused Butter or Oil

If it's not already ready, the first step is to decarboxylate cannabis flower to activate its compounds. Once it's decarbed, infuse it with butter or oil to add to future cannabis edibles.

Step 2: Set Up a Double Boiler

Otherwise, place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water to create a double boiler. This will prevent the chocolate from burning as it melts.

Step 3: Melt the Infused Butter/Oil

Add ½ cup cannabis-infused butter or oil to the bowl and melt it gently over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly without overheating.

Step 4: Add Cocoa Powder, Sweetener, and Flavorings

Once the butter or oil has melted, sieve in the cocoa powder. Then, whisk the cocoa powder sweetener, vanilla extract, and sea salt into the mixture.

Continue whisking until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients

If desired, stir in nuts, seeds, dried fruit, coconut flakes, or nut butter for extra texture and flavor. You can also save this step after you've poured the chocolate into the molds.

Step 6: Pour into Molds

Carefully pour the mixture into silicone molds or spread it evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Tap the molds or tray lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles.

If you waited on step 5, quickly add any optional toppings before the chocolate starts to set.

Step 7: Chill and Set

Place the molds or tray in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or until the chocolate is fully set.

Step 8: Store Your Cannabis Chocolate

Once firm, remove the chocolate from the molds. To maintain freshness, store your edible cannabis chocolate in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or the fridge.

The Best Way to Store Your Freshly Made Cannabis Chocolate

Proper storage will keep your homemade weed chocolate bar fresh and potent for as long as possible. The ideal environment is a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excess humidity, such as a pantry or cabinet. If your home is especially warm or humid, the fridge can be a great option to prevent the chocolate from melting. Keeping it in a tightly sealed container will also help prevent air exposure, which can degrade the chocolate’s flavor and potency.

When stored correctly in the refrigerator, cannabis-infused chocolate can remain fresh for up to six months. However, refrigeration can cause a white, powdery coating (known as sugar bloom) to form due to moisture.

For the longest shelf life, consider freezing it. Properly stored cannabis chocolate can last up to a year in the freezer if wrapped in foil and kept in an airtight bag or container. When ready to eat, allow the chocolate to thaw gradually at room temperature to avoid texture changes.

The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.