Wake and Bake: A Guide to Cannabis-Infused Pancakes

There's something truly magical about waking up to the aroma of freshly made pancakes wafting through the air. But what if you could take that morning ritual up a notch? Cannabis-infused pancakes offer a delightful twist to your breakfast routine, combining the comforting flavors of fluffy pancakes with the therapeutic effects of cannabis.

Whether you're a seasoned cannabis enthusiast or simply curious about exploring new culinary horizons, crafting these delectable treats is simpler than you might think. So, fire up your griddle and let's dive into the world of cannabis-infused pancakes.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon cannabis-infused oil or melted cannabis-infused butter
• Additional butter or oil for cooking
• Optional: toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or chocolate chips

2. Prepare the Cannabis-Infused Oil or Butter:

Select Your Cannabis: Start by choosing high-quality cannabis flowers or concentrates. For beginners, it's advisable to start with a strain low in THC (the psychoactive compound) and high in CBD (the non-intoxicating compound) to achieve a milder effect. You'll need about 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5 to 7 grams) of cannabis for every cup of oil or butter.

Decarboxylation: Before infusing cannabis into oil or butter, it must undergo a process called decarboxylation to activate the cannabinoids. Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C). Grind your cannabis finely and spread it evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even decarboxylation. The cannabis should turn a light golden brown color and become dry and crumbly.

Infusion Methods:

1. Oil Infusion: Heat the oil of your choice (common options include coconut oil, olive oil, or vegetable oil) in a saucepan over low heat. Add the decarboxylated cannabis to the oil and simmer gently for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Avoid letting the mixture come to a boil, as this can degrade the cannabinoids and diminish potency. After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let the oil cool slightly before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a container. Press the plant material with a spoon to extract as much infused oil as possible.
2. Butter Infusion: Melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the decarboxylated cannabis to the butter and simmer gently for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Again, avoid boiling the mixture. After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and let the butter cool slightly before straining it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a container. Press the plant material with a spoon to extract as much infused butter as possible.

Strain and Store: Once strained, allow the infused oil or butter to cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating it. It will solidify in the refrigerator, making it easier to portion and use in recipes. Properly labeled, cannabis-infused oil or butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month or in the freezer for longer-term storage.

By following these detailed steps, you can ensure that your cannabis-infused oil or butter is potent, flavorful, and ready to elevate your culinary creations, including those delicious cannabis-infused pancakes!

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Sift the dry ingredients if you want extra fluffy pancakes.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and cannabis-infused oil or butter until thoroughly combined. For extra richness, you can use cannabis-infused milk instead of regular milk.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the mixture together until just combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps in the batter; overmixing can result in tough pancakes.

6. Heat the Griddle or Skillet:

Preheat a non-stick griddle or skillet over medium heat. You can test if it's ready by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface – if they sizzle and evaporate, it's hot enough. If you're using a cast-iron skillet, make sure it's well-seasoned to prevent sticking.

7. Cook the Pancakes:

Lightly grease the griddle or skillet with butter or oil. Using a ladle or measuring cup, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the cooking surface for each pancake. Leave enough space between pancakes to allow for spreading. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes.

8. Flip and Cook the Other Side:

Carefully flip each pancake with a spatula and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid pressing down on the pancakes with the spatula, as this can deflate them.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the pancakes to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Drizzle with maple syrup, scatter fresh fruits, dollop with whipped cream, or sprinkle with chocolate chips – the choice is yours! To keep pancakes warm while you cook the remaining batches, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven set to the lowest temperature.

10. Dosage Considerations:

Keep in mind the potency of your cannabis-infused oil or butter when determining your dosage. Start with a small amount and wait at least an hour before consuming more to gauge the effects. It's essential to label your cannabis-infused ingredients clearly and store them safely away from children and pets.

With this detailed recipe, you can confidently create cannabis-infused pancakes that are both delicious and satisfying. So, the next time you're craving a special morning treat, whip up a batch of these fluffy delights and savor the unique blend of flavors and sensations. Happy cooking and happy munching!