Warm weather and cold adult beverages go together like sunshine and happiness. Now imagine adding canna-cocktails to that mix. Whoa! Can you imagine the euphoria you love taking you any higher?
Long before modern mixologists started crafting liquid art with cannabinoids, natural elixirs were already a cultural phenomena; rock stars before rock stars existed. And while today’s cannabis-infused cocktails feel edgy and new, the fusion of exotic and esoteric ingredients has been a staple of thirsty alchemists since Neanderthals first grunted, “Hold my beer.”
Note: This is Part 1 of a Two-part Series.
Origins: Ancient Herbal Infusions
In ancient cultures across North Africa, South Asia, and the Far East – regions that now include modern-day Egypt, India, and China – the primary pursuit of cannabis wasn’t for pleasure; it was valued for its medicinal qualities. For centuries, it was blended into teas, tonics, and tinctures for its calming effects, pain relief, and even spiritual significance. These weren’t cocktails in the modern sense, but they laid the groundwork for cannabis as a natural, ingestible tonic.
The Apothecary Era
Fast-forward to the mid-1800s, when cannabis was no stranger to the ingredient list of products available in early pharmacies across the United States. You could walk into an apothecary, and alongside traditional medicines and various botanical concoctions, you could find cannabis-infused wines, bitters, and syrups. These canna-concoctions were often sold to the public for conditions ranging from digestive issues and stress relief to chronic pain and inflammation. Back then, medicinal products weren’t regulated like they are today, meaning consistency and potency could vary wildly – wilder than the West itself.
Temperance, Prohibition, and New Cultural Norms
As the United States expanded and the 19th Century rolled into the next, attitudes toward both alcohol and cannabis began to change direction. In time, the temperance movement, which had gained traction throughout the 1800s reached its peak in the first quarter of the 20th Century, and led to Prohibition; the ratification of the 18th Amendment in January 1919. (For context, the 19th Amendment – prohibiting voter discrimination based on sex – was added to the U.S. Constitution just a year later in 1920. Now try to imagine social media existing back then and how it would have flamed these two cultural issues – each seemingly heading in opposite directions. It’s funny how some things never change, but we pretend that they do.)
Simultaneously, cannabis faced increasing regulation and societal suspicion. By the 1930s, it was often grouped with narcotics in sensational headlines and fear-based propaganda. Eventually, cannabis was criminalized. The cultural dysfunction was notably exemplified by the notorious film Reefer Madness.
Cannabis-infused indulgence quickly and quietly vanished from pharmacy shelves. The once-familiar pairing of botanicals and booze became both a social taboo and a legal liability. While speakeasies offered refuge for those seeking a drink, cannabis and its counterparts had no such safe-space and were often eradicated. What was once considered a respectable remedy had been recast as deviant and dangerous. The Green Scare if you will.
The Return of the Green Spirit
Fast-forward to the current era and the ongoing movement for cannabis decriminalization across North America. For more and more people, cannabis in social settings has made a massive comeback. The stigma that once surrounded it is fading, perceptions are swinging back toward the more open-minded norms of the pre-temperance era.
It was only a matter of time… Enter: the canna-cocktail. No longer esoteric experiments, these smoke-free beverages are making appearances at music festivals, artsy events, trendy bars, and even swanky dinner parties.
Your great-great-grandmother—the 1920s flapper—would be highly impressed. What was once old is new again… minus your great-great-grandmother. She’s not new again. Obviously.
From The Buzz to The Balance
These days, for cannabis cocktail enthusiasts, it’s not mainly about getting high – it’s about how you feel: present, uplifted, and blissfully balanced. A growing number of canna-curious are turning to these drinks as an alternative to alcohol – and sometimes as a complement to it. They’re seeking something new, something exciting, something fun. They’re seeking an experience that speaks to their values and mindset.
Pro Tip: Maximizing Joy
Truth be told, no one is pursing canna-cocktails as a means to post-workout hydration. You’re here for the THC, and perhaps the THCa, right? Here’s the thing: THC is fat-soluble. This means that your body will absorb it best when your digestive system – primarily, the small intestine – is primed with fats. So to maximize your joy, it’s recommended that while sipping on a cannabis-infused cocktail, pair it with something fried, buttery, or creamy. For example, fries, cheese, guac, you get the idea. Celery sticks and non-fat ice cream are buzz killers, literally. Not only does having some fats enhance the effects, but it also makes for a handy excuse to eat things that mom always told you not to eat.
Think of it as pre-gaming your post-game. That is, eat the munchies now so you can better get the munchies later. Another Pro Tip – Make sure Grubhub and Uber Eats are in your phone’s contacts list.
And who knows, maybe we’ll do a follow-up article with some THC-friendly appetizer ideas. Infused sliders, or stuffed jalapeno THC poppers, anyone?
DIY: Creating a Cannabis Infusion
If you’ve made cocktails or even lemonade at home, you’re already qualified to concoct your own homemade infusions. Adding cannabis to the mix is surprisingly straightforward—especially when starting with flower. The key steps? A little heat, a little patience, some music of course, and a lot of good vibes.
And if by chance things go sideways, there’s no reason to panic; no bunnies or kittens will be harmed. Just take a deep breath or a hit off your bong and try again. Any of your lost causes are safe with us. We don’t tell anyone.
Your First Flower Infusion
The fool-proof way to draft cannabis into your cocktail game is by starting with everyone’s favorite – flower. The first step is to decarb – that’s short for decarboxylate – which is a fancy way of saying: bake your bud. This activates the cannabinoids like THC, making them infusion-friendly.
But first, you must choose your pleasure. You can use either THCa flower or CBD flower for this process, depending on your immediate preference. THCa flower will give your infusion that signature high, while CBD flower will offer a more relaxing, non-intoxicating experience – perfect for those who want the benefits without the buzz.
To do it, break your flower into small chunks (not finely ground), spread it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, cover it loosely with foil, and bake at 240°F (115°C) for 40 to 45 minutes. Remove it and let it cool completely.
Once your decarbed flower is cooled, it’s soak time. Important: Bake & Soak should not be confused with Wake & Bake, obviously. A good rule of thumb is about 1 gram of flower per 2 to 4 ounces of liquid, depending on how strong you want the infusion to be. Drop the baked buds into your liquid of choice – vodka, white rum, or any clear spirit – but don’t feel limited to booze. You can also infuse lemonade, iced tea, simple syrup, or even coconut water if non-alcoholic is your preference. There are no wrong answers. Be willing to have fun and experiment a bit.
Seal your container, give it a shake, and let it steep – at least overnight, though a couple of days will typically give you a result with more depth and breadth. If you’re infusing for 12 to 72 hours, room temperature is fine; any longer, it’s probably best to put it in the fridge.
Once the steeping is completed, the next step is to strain out the plant material using a fine strainer or cheesecloth and dispose of those buds. They’re spent. Bottle up the good stuff, and shazam – you’ve got a house-made cannabis infusion ready for your cocktail antics.
Infusion: Summary of Steps
Choose your flower
THCa for a classic high
CBD for a relaxing, non-intoxicating experience.
Decarb your bud:
Break into small chunks (not ground). Spread on a parchment- or foil-lined baking sheet.
Optional: Cover loosely with foil. Some say they cover, others say they don’t. It’s your call.
Bake at 240°F (115°C) for 40–45 minutes. Let cool completely.
Soak it:
Use about 1 gram of flower per 2–4 oz of liquid.
Add to a container with your base—alcohol (clear) or non-alcoholic (like lemonade or iced tea).
Seal, shake, and steep at least overnight (up to a few days for richer flavor). Room temp is fine for up to 72 hours; refrigerate if steeping longer.
Strain & bottle:
Use a fine strainer or cheesecloth. Discard the spent buds.
Bottle your infusion and get mixing.
Flavor note: Infusing with flower will lend an herbal, earthy, sometimes piney flavor to your mix — similar to how gin or vermouth brings botanical notes. You can balance or complement that with citrus, ginger, mint, or other fresh ingredients. In any case, start with a small first batch as a foundation to your first stepping stoned in your canna-fication education.
Canna-Cocktails’ Tools (Optional)
None of these are required, although a strainer – which you probably already own – is going to make things 10x easier. Also, keep in mind, they’re not exclusive to craft canna-cocktails. They won’t go bad They won’t go out of style. And let’s be honest, life is not complete unless you own a muddler. As the French philosopher Descartes once mumbled, “Je pilonne, donc je suis.”
Cocktail Shaker
Why it’s useful – Essential for mixing drinks with multiple ingredients or for cocktails that need a good chill or froth (like a whiskey sour).
Details – A classic Boston shaker or a cobbler shaker both work. Look for metal versions—avoid plastic for a more professional look and feel.
Muddler
Why it’s useful – Perfect for smashing fruits, herbs, or spices to release their flavors. Great for drinks like mojitos or old-fashioned cocktails.
Details – Go for wood, stainless steel, or bamboo over plastic. You want something durable that doesn’t leave a weird taste.
Jigger
Why it’s useful – An absolute must if you want to measure out your ingredients accurately. Helps keep your cocktails balanced and consistent.
Details – Stainless steel jiggers are best for durability and ease of cleaning. They usually have two sides for different measurements (e.g., 1 oz and 1/2 oz).
Strainer
Why it’s useful – Helps you remove ice, herbs, or fruit pulp from your cocktail, giving it a smooth finish. A must-have for shaken cocktails.
Details – A classic hawthorne strainer works best. Make sure it fits your shaker for easy pouring. You can also use a fine mesh strainer for even more precision if you’re straining finer bits.
Citrus Juicer or Reamer
Why it’s useful – Fresh citrus juice makes all the difference in a cocktail. A manual juicer or reamer allows you to extract juice from lemons, limes, or oranges with minimal effort.
Details – Stainless steel versions are best; they’re easy to clean and won’t absorb citrus oils or scents.
Ice Cube Tray or Ice Molds
Why it’s useful – Ice is crucial in cocktails. Using large, slow-melting ice cubes or spheres can keep your drinks from getting watered down too quickly.
Details – Silicone molds make it easy to pop out large ice cubes. Avoid using plastic trays—they don’t look as good and can impart funky flavors into your ice.
Stirring Spoon
Why it’s useful – For cocktails that need to be stirred (like martinis or manhattans), a long stirring spoon helps mix your drink properly without bruising the ingredients.
Details – Metal spoons work best here. A bar spoon (long, with a twisted handle) adds a professional touch and is great for both stirring and layering drinks.
Glassware
Why it’s useful – The right glass enhances the experience. Whether you’re serving a margarita, a martini, or a highball, using the proper glass showcases your drink.
Details – No need for crystal unless you’re feeling extra, but definitely avoid plastic glasses—they’re not only tacky but can affect the taste. Look for sturdy, clear glassware.
Bar Mat
Why it’s useful – Helps keep your work surface clean and dry while you’re crafting your cocktails.
Details – Silicone or rubber mats are easy to clean and won’t slide around. They’re also kind of a pro touch!
Conclusion – Part 1
In Part 2, we will be sharing some of our favorite recipes. Stay tuned.
Summer Sips: Cannabis Cocktails – Part 1
Warm weather and cold adult beverages go together like sunshine and happiness. Now imagine adding canna-cocktails to that mix. Whoa! Can you imagine the euphoria you love taking you any higher?
Long before modern mixologists started crafting liquid art with cannabinoids, natural elixirs were already a cultural phenomena; rock stars before rock stars existed. And while today’s cannabis-infused cocktails feel edgy and new, the fusion of exotic and esoteric ingredients has been a staple of thirsty alchemists since Neanderthals first grunted, “Hold my beer.”
Note: This is Part 1 of a Two-part Series.
Origins: Ancient Herbal Infusions
In ancient cultures across North Africa, South Asia, and the Far East – regions that now include modern-day Egypt, India, and China – the primary pursuit of cannabis wasn’t for pleasure; it was valued for its medicinal qualities. For centuries, it was blended into teas, tonics, and tinctures for its calming effects, pain relief, and even spiritual significance. These weren’t cocktails in the modern sense, but they laid the groundwork for cannabis as a natural, ingestible tonic.
The Apothecary Era
Fast-forward to the mid-1800s, when cannabis was no stranger to the ingredient list of products available in early pharmacies across the United States. You could walk into an apothecary, and alongside traditional medicines and various botanical concoctions, you could find cannabis-infused wines, bitters, and syrups. These canna-concoctions were often sold to the public for conditions ranging from digestive issues and stress relief to chronic pain and inflammation. Back then, medicinal products weren’t regulated like they are today, meaning consistency and potency could vary wildly – wilder than the West itself.
Temperance, Prohibition, and New Cultural Norms
As the United States expanded and the 19th Century rolled into the next, attitudes toward both alcohol and cannabis began to change direction. In time, the temperance movement, which had gained traction throughout the 1800s reached its peak in the first quarter of the 20th Century, and led to Prohibition; the ratification of the 18th Amendment in January 1919. (For context, the 19th Amendment – prohibiting voter discrimination based on sex – was added to the U.S. Constitution just a year later in 1920. Now try to imagine social media existing back then and how it would have flamed these two cultural issues – each seemingly heading in opposite directions. It’s funny how some things never change, but we pretend that they do.)
Simultaneously, cannabis faced increasing regulation and societal suspicion. By the 1930s, it was often grouped with narcotics in sensational headlines and fear-based propaganda. Eventually, cannabis was criminalized. The cultural dysfunction was notably exemplified by the notorious film Reefer Madness.
Cannabis-infused indulgence quickly and quietly vanished from pharmacy shelves. The once-familiar pairing of botanicals and booze became both a social taboo and a legal liability. While speakeasies offered refuge for those seeking a drink, cannabis and its counterparts had no such safe-space and were often eradicated. What was once considered a respectable remedy had been recast as deviant and dangerous. The Green Scare if you will.
The Return of the Green Spirit
Fast-forward to the current era and the ongoing movement for cannabis decriminalization across North America. For more and more people, cannabis in social settings has made a massive comeback. The stigma that once surrounded it is fading, perceptions are swinging back toward the more open-minded norms of the pre-temperance era.
It was only a matter of time… Enter: the canna-cocktail. No longer esoteric experiments, these smoke-free beverages are making appearances at music festivals, artsy events, trendy bars, and even swanky dinner parties.
Your great-great-grandmother—the 1920s flapper—would be highly impressed. What was once old is new again… minus your great-great-grandmother. She’s not new again. Obviously.
From The Buzz to The Balance
These days, for cannabis cocktail enthusiasts, it’s not mainly about getting high – it’s about how you feel: present, uplifted, and blissfully balanced. A growing number of canna-curious are turning to these drinks as an alternative to alcohol – and sometimes as a complement to it. They’re seeking something new, something exciting, something fun. They’re seeking an experience that speaks to their values and mindset.
Pro Tip: Maximizing Joy
Truth be told, no one is pursing canna-cocktails as a means to post-workout hydration. You’re here for the THC, and perhaps the THCa, right? Here’s the thing: THC is fat-soluble. This means that your body will absorb it best when your digestive system – primarily, the small intestine – is primed with fats. So to maximize your joy, it’s recommended that while sipping on a cannabis-infused cocktail, pair it with something fried, buttery, or creamy. For example, fries, cheese, guac, you get the idea. Celery sticks and non-fat ice cream are buzz killers, literally. Not only does having some fats enhance the effects, but it also makes for a handy excuse to eat things that mom always told you not to eat.
Think of it as pre-gaming your post-game. That is, eat the munchies now so you can better get the munchies later. Another Pro Tip – Make sure Grubhub and Uber Eats are in your phone’s contacts list.
And who knows, maybe we’ll do a follow-up article with some THC-friendly appetizer ideas. Infused sliders, or stuffed jalapeno THC poppers, anyone?
DIY: Creating a Cannabis Infusion
If you’ve made cocktails or even lemonade at home, you’re already qualified to concoct your own homemade infusions. Adding cannabis to the mix is surprisingly straightforward—especially when starting with flower. The key steps? A little heat, a little patience, some music of course, and a lot of good vibes.
And if by chance things go sideways, there’s no reason to panic; no bunnies or kittens will be harmed. Just take a deep breath or a hit off your bong and try again. Any of your lost causes are safe with us. We don’t tell anyone.
Your First Flower Infusion
The fool-proof way to draft cannabis into your cocktail game is by starting with everyone’s favorite – flower. The first step is to decarb – that’s short for decarboxylate – which is a fancy way of saying: bake your bud. This activates the cannabinoids like THC, making them infusion-friendly.
But first, you must choose your pleasure. You can use either THCa flower or CBD flower for this process, depending on your immediate preference. THCa flower will give your infusion that signature high, while CBD flower will offer a more relaxing, non-intoxicating experience – perfect for those who want the benefits without the buzz.
To do it, break your flower into small chunks (not finely ground), spread it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, cover it loosely with foil, and bake at 240°F (115°C) for 40 to 45 minutes. Remove it and let it cool completely.
Once your decarbed flower is cooled, it’s soak time. Important: Bake & Soak should not be confused with Wake & Bake, obviously. A good rule of thumb is about 1 gram of flower per 2 to 4 ounces of liquid, depending on how strong you want the infusion to be. Drop the baked buds into your liquid of choice – vodka, white rum, or any clear spirit – but don’t feel limited to booze. You can also infuse lemonade, iced tea, simple syrup, or even coconut water if non-alcoholic is your preference. There are no wrong answers. Be willing to have fun and experiment a bit.
Seal your container, give it a shake, and let it steep – at least overnight, though a couple of days will typically give you a result with more depth and breadth. If you’re infusing for 12 to 72 hours, room temperature is fine; any longer, it’s probably best to put it in the fridge.
Once the steeping is completed, the next step is to strain out the plant material using a fine strainer or cheesecloth and dispose of those buds. They’re spent. Bottle up the good stuff, and shazam – you’ve got a house-made cannabis infusion ready for your cocktail antics.
Infusion: Summary of Steps
Flavor note: Infusing with flower will lend an herbal, earthy, sometimes piney flavor to your mix — similar to how gin or vermouth brings botanical notes. You can balance or complement that with citrus, ginger, mint, or other fresh ingredients. In any case, start with a small first batch as a foundation to your first stepping stoned in your canna-fication education.
Canna-Cocktails’ Tools (Optional)
None of these are required, although a strainer – which you probably already own – is going to make things 10x easier. Also, keep in mind, they’re not exclusive to craft canna-cocktails. They won’t go bad They won’t go out of style. And let’s be honest, life is not complete unless you own a muddler. As the French philosopher Descartes once mumbled, “Je pilonne, donc je suis.”
Cocktail Shaker
Muddler
Jigger
Strainer
Citrus Juicer or Reamer
Ice Cube Tray or Ice Molds
Stirring Spoon
Glassware
Bar Mat
Conclusion – Part 1
In Part 2, we will be sharing some of our favorite recipes. Stay tuned.