Elevate Your Happy Hour: Infusing Cocktails with Cannabis

Cannabis and cocktails—two worlds of relaxation that, when paired responsibly, can create a unique and elevated experience. Cannabis-infused cocktails, also known as “cannabis mocktails” when non-alcoholic, are a growing trend among mixologists and cannabis enthusiasts alike. These drinks blend the flavors of herbs, fruits, and spirits with the therapeutic effects of THC or CBD, offering a sophisticated way to enjoy cannabis.

With the right approach and a bit of creativity, you can craft infused beverages that are both delicious and safe to enjoy. Below, we’ll explore how to incorporate cannabis into your cocktails and share a few recipes to get you started.

The Basics of Cannabis-Infused Cocktails

Before jumping into recipes, it’s important to understand how to safely and effectively infuse cannabis into drinks.

1. Know Your Cannabinoid

• THC: Provides the psychoactive “high” associated with cannabis. Great for a social and relaxing vibe.

• CBD: Non-psychoactive and known for its calming and soothing effects. Ideal for a relaxing yet functional drink.

2. Choose Your Infusion Method

Cannabis doesn’t dissolve in water or alcohol on its own—it needs to bind to fat or alcohol for proper infusion. Here are two common methods:

• Cannabis-Infused Simple Syrup: Combine sugar, water, and decarboxylated cannabis (or a cannabis tincture) to create a sweet, THC- or CBD-infused syrup.

• Cannabis Tincture: Alcohol-based cannabis extracts can be added drop by drop for precise dosing. These are readily available at dispensaries or can be made at home. A great choice is our THC-Free anytime CBD Isolate Oil or THX 30 Oil by Divvy.

3. Dosage is Key

The golden rule is start low and go slow. Use no more than 2-5 mg of THC per serving to avoid overdoing it. CBD can be used more liberally, typically 5-10 mg per drink, depending on individual tolerance.

4. Consider Non-Alcoholic Options

Cannabis and alcohol can intensify each other’s effects, so you might prefer to skip the alcohol and make a cannabis-only mocktail for a balanced experience.

Tips for Crafting Cannabis Cocktails

• Balance Flavors: Cannabis has an earthy taste that pairs well with fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary and citrus fruits like lemon, lime, and orange.

• Layer Ingredients: Add cannabis as a subtle background note rather than the dominant flavor.

• Garnish for Flair: Use visually appealing garnishes like orange peels, edible flowers, or sugared rims to enhance the presentation.

3 Cannabis-Infused Cocktail Recipes

Here are a few easy and delicious recipes to try.

1. Green Garden Mojito (CBD Mocktail)

A refreshing, herbaceous drink perfect for unwinding on a crisp fall evening.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh mint leaves

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz cannabis-infused simple syrup (CBD)

• 4 oz sparkling water

• Crushed ice

• Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint leaves and lime juice in a shaker.

2. Add the CBD simple syrup and a handful of crushed ice. Shake well.

3. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice and top with sparkling water.

4. Garnish with a lime wheel and mint sprig.

2. Cannarita (THC-Infused Margarita)

Put a cannabis twist on this classic cocktail!

Ingredients:

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz orange liqueur (like Cointreau)

• 1 oz tequila

• 0.5 oz cannabis tincture (THC, about 2.5 mg per drink)

• Salt for rim

• Ice

• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim your glass with salt by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it in coarse salt.

2. Combine lime juice, orange liqueur, tequila, and cannabis tincture in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously.

3. Strain into the salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.

4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

3. Spiced Autumn Highball (CBD or THC)

A cozy, fall-inspired drink featuring warm spices and seasonal flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz apple cider

• 1 oz bourbon (optional for non-mocktail version)

• 1 oz cannabis-infused cinnamon simple syrup (CBD or THC)

• 2 oz ginger beer

• Ice

• Cinnamon stick and apple slice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.

2. Add apple cider, bourbon (if using), and cannabis-infused cinnamon syrup. Stir to combine.

3. Top with ginger beer and give it a gentle stir.

4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.

Infused Drinks: Perfect for Any Occasion

Cannabis-infused cocktails and mocktails are a versatile addition to any gathering, whether it’s a cozy fall evening, a dinner party, or just relaxing at home. They offer a unique way to explore the flavors and effects of cannabis while promoting mindful consumption.

So, grab your favorite ingredients, experiment with these recipes, and elevate your next happy hour! Just remember: always enjoy responsibly and in good company. Cheers to good vibes and great drinks! 🍹✨