ABV, or Already Been Vaped cannabis, is a popular choice for making edibles. If you’ve been saving your leftover vaped weed, you might wonder how much butter you need to whip up something delicious and practical. This blog will guide you through how to measure your ABV, choose the right amount of butter, and confidently make cannabis-infused butter that’s perfect for edibles.
Whether you’re a seasoned edible maker or just starting, this post breaks it down.
What is ABV, and why is it used in edibles?
ABV refers to cannabis that has already been vaporized using a dry herb vaporizer. Although it’s already been partially used, ABV still contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Its potency may be reduced compared to fresh cannabis, but it’s still effective for creating edibles.
Here’s why ABV is a great choice:
- Cost-effective – You’re repurposing something you might otherwise throw away.
- It’s easy to work with. Cannabinoids are already decarboxylated during vaporization, so there’s no need for an extra step to activate them.
But one thing to keep in mind is that ABV typically contains less THC than raw cannabis, so dosing requires a bit of trial and error.
How Much ABV Should You Use?
When working with ABV, the general rule is to use it in greater amounts than fresh cannabis. The potency of ABV depends on how thoroughly it was vaporized. Lightly toasted (light brown) ABV often retains more potency than dark, nearly black ABV.
Suggested Dosage:
Mild Effects: 5-8 grams of ABV per cup of butter
Moderate Effects: 8-12 grams of ABV per cup of butter
Strong Effects: 12-16 grams of ABV per cup of butter
For first-timers, start with a smaller amount of ABV (around 8 grams) to gauge the potency of your infusion. You can constantly adjust for future batches.
How Much Butter for 1 Cup of ABV?
The specific ratio of butter to ABV depends on how much ABV you’re using and how potent you want your final product to be. Here’s a simple guide:
Standard Ratios:
- 1 cup of ABV to 1 cup of butter for a strong infusion
- 1 cup of ABV to 1.5 cups of butter for a lighter infusion
- 1 cup of ABV to 2 cups of butter for very mild effects
For an even infusion, stick with a 1-to-1 ratio (1 cup of ABV to 1 cup of butter). This ensures an intense flavor and potency without overly diluting the cannabinoids.
Tip: Remember that using more butter doesn’t weaken the cannabinoids already present—it simply spreads them out across a larger surface area.
How to Make Cannabis Butter with ABV
Once you know how much butter and ABV to use, it’s time to get cooking. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to making your cannabis butter:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ABV (adjust the amount based on your desired strength)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1-2 cups water (for simmering)
Instructions:
- Melt the Butter: Add the butter and water to a saucepan or slow cooker and heat over low heat until the butter melts.
- Add ABV: Stir in the ABV and mix well. Keep the heat low to prevent scorching.
- Simmer: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent boiling.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the ABV from the butter. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible, but be careful not to push plant material through the sieve.
- Cool and Solidify: Pour the butter into a container and refrigerate until solid. The water will separate from the butter, so you can easily discard it once it hardens.
- Store: Transfer your cannabis-infused butter into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer.
Voila! Your cannabis butter is ready to use in your favorite recipes.
Tips for Success with ABV Butter
Here are a few tips to ensure your butter turns out just right:
- Taste matters: ABV can have a more substantial, nuttier flavor than fresh cannabis, which may come through in your final product. Choose recipes where this flavor complements the dish, like brownies, cookies, or savory baked goods.
- Test potency: Always start with a low dose when trying your butter for the first time, as ABV’s potency can vary. Try using a teaspoon in your recipe and adjust it based on your feelings.
- Don’t skip the water: Adding water while simmering prevents the butter from burning and helps remove impurities like chlorophyll, which can affect flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter?
While unsalted butter is ideal for controlling salt levels in your recipes, salted butter works in a pinch. Just account for the extra salt when baking or cooking.
Do I need to decarboxylate ABV before making butter?
Nope! The vaporization process already decarboxylates the cannabis, meaning ABV is ready to infuse directly into butter.
How should I store cannabis butter?
You can store your cannabis butter in an airtight container in the fridge for short-term use (up to 2 weeks) or in the freezer for longer storage (up to 6 months).
Can I use oils instead of butter?
Yes! Coconut or olive oil can be used instead of butter for cooking and baking. The infusion process is the same.
Time to Make Your First Batch of ABV Butter!
Making ABV butter is one of the best ways to extend the life of your already vaporized cannabis. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a versatile infusion perfect for edibles.
Remember to start small with your ABV measurements, especially if you’re new to edibles, and to perfect the butter-to-ABV ratio based on your preferences and goals.
Once you’ve mastered the art of ABV butter, edible possibilities are endless. Who’s ready to bake?
