How to Make Cannabis Beverages at Home: A Simple Step-by-Step

Making cannabis beverages at home is one of the most creative ways to enjoy the effects of THC or CBD in a flavorful, smoke-free form. Whether you’re brewing tea, blending a smoothie, or crafting a sparkling mocktail, learning how to infuse cannabis properly ensures the right balance of taste, potency, and experience.

SHAKE Glitter Drops captures this same spirit of creativity and control, offering hemp-derived THC drops that can transform any drink into a microdosed, sparkling experience. While it is ready-to-use, the art of making cannabis beverages at home helps you appreciate how flavor, texture, and potency come together.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make cannabis beverages safely and effectively—from preparing ingredients to dosing and flavoring techniques. You’ll also find tips for storage, legality, and responsible enjoyment so you can craft drinks that reflect your personal style.

Understanding Cannabis Beverages

Cannabis beverages are becoming a popular way to enjoy THC and CBD through drinks. You can find different kinds, each with unique effects and benefits. Knowing what they are and how they affect you helps you choose the best option for your needs.

What Are Cannabis-Infused Drinks

Cannabis-infused drinks are beverages mixed with compounds like THC or CBD from the cannabis plant. These drinks often require a process called decarboxylation, which activates the cannabinoids for the body to absorb. 

The infusion can be done in teas, coffees, cocktails, smoothies, or even sparkling waters. The result is a smoke-free way to experience cannabis effects. You control the strength and flavor, making it a discreet and customizable option.

Types of Cannabis Beverages

There are many types of cannabis beverages, including:

• Cannabis teas and coffees: Warm drinks infused with cannabinoids.

• Smoothies: Blended fruit or vegetable beverages mixed with cannabis extracts.

• Cocktails and mocktails: Alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks that include cannabis.

• Sparkling waters and sodas: Carbonated drinks enhanced with cannabinoids.

Each type varies in onset time and duration. For example, warm drinks may hit quicker but shorter, while edibles in drinks take longer but last longer. Your choice depends on taste, occasion, and desired effect.

Benefits and Effects

Cannabis beverages offer a smoke-free experience with more controlled dosing. They can provide relaxation, mood uplift, or pain relief, depending on the cannabinoids used and your dose. 

The effects usually take longer to start compared to smoking, often 30 minutes to 2 hours. They last longer, sometimes 4 to 8 hours. Start with a low dose and be patient to avoid overconsumption. 

Benefits include discreet use and no lingering smell. Plus, cannabis drinks can be combined with your favorite flavors or enhanced with products for a sparkling, joyful experience.

Essential Equipment and Ingredients

To make cannabis beverages, you’ll need the right tools to measure and mix, good-quality cannabis to infuse, and other ingredients to balance taste and effect. Focusing on what matters most helps you create safe, tasty drinks with controlled potency.

Required Tools and Appliances

Start with basic kitchen tools like measuring spoons, a digital scale, and a glass or stainless steel mixing bowl. You’ll also need a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove plant material after infusion. 

If you plan to heat your cannabis, a double boiler or slow cooker is helpful for gentle temperature control to avoid burning the cannabinoids. Other handy tools include a blender for smoothies or shakes, a stirring spoon, and airtight containers for storing your infused liquids. 

Precision and cleanliness are key. Clean equipment ensures your drink stays free of unwanted flavors or contaminants.

Choosing the Right Cannabis

Select cannabis strains based on your taste and desired effects. Flowers or concentrates like rosin work well for drinks. If you want strong effects, use high-THC cannabis. For subtle relaxation, try hemp-derived THC or CBD products within legal limits. 

Decarboxylation (heating cannabis to activate THC or CBD) is essential before infusion. This step turns inactive compounds into active ones that affect your body. Microdosing with precise amounts helps control potency, avoiding overconsumption in your beverage. 

Look for lab-tested cannabis to ensure safety, purity, and consistent strength.

Other Key Ingredients

Cannabis extracts mix best with fats like coconut oil or butter since cannabinoids dissolve in fats. For drinks, syrups, honey, or sugar balance cannabis’ earthy flavor. Citrus juices like lemon or lime can brighten the taste and mask strong notes. 

Water, tea, coffee, or sparkling water make good bases depending on your drink choice. Add flavor enhancers like herbs, spices, or flavored extracts to customize your beverage. If you want to add sparkle or extra fun, consider a top-quality product that combines microdose hemp THC with food-safe glitter for a safe, beautiful shimmer in any drink.

Are Cannabis Beverages Safe to Make at Home?

Making cannabis drinks at home is generally safe when done correctly, but it’s important to handle ingredients carefully. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that cannabis products should be kept out of reach of children. Always label your drinks clearly and store them in childproof containers to avoid accidental ingestion.

Infusing Cannabis Into Liquids

To make cannabis beverages, you’ll need to extract the active compounds like THC into a liquid form. This process often starts by activating the cannabis, then creating tinctures or syrups that can easily mix into your favorite drinks. Each step affects the flavor, potency, and how the cannabis interacts with your beverage.

Decarboxylation Process

Cannabis contains THCA, which isn’t psychoactive until it’s heated. Decarboxylation is the process that activates THC by heating the cannabis at a low temperature. To do this, spread ground cannabis on a baking sheet. 

Bake it in an oven at around 220°F (105°C) for 30–40 minutes. This converts THCA into THC without burning the plant. Decarboxylation is important because it ensures your cannabis-infused drink will have the expected effects. Make sure to cool the cannabis before moving on to the next step.

Making Cannabis Tinctures

Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts made by soaking decarboxylated cannabis in alcohol or oil. They’re easy to dose and can mix smoothly into drinks. To make a tincture, combine your decarboxylated cannabis with a high-proof alcohol like vodka in a glass jar. 

Seal it and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake it gently once a day for 2–4 weeks. After soaking, strain the liquid through a fine mesh or cheesecloth to remove plant material. The resulting tincture can be added to teas, cocktails, or any beverage you like.

Preparing Cannabis Simple Syrup

Cannabis simple syrup is a sweet, infused liquid that enhances flavor and eases mixing with cold drinks. You’ll need sugar, water, and decarboxylated cannabis. Start by heating equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves. 

Add your decarboxylated cannabis and simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes. Avoid boiling to preserve THC. Strain the mixture to remove solids. Let it cool before using. This syrup works well in cocktails, lemonades, and mocktails, giving you control over potency and sweetness.

Crafting Cannabis Beverages at Home

Making cannabis beverages at home lets you control the strength, flavors, and overall experience. You’ll need to measure your doses carefully, mix ingredients properly, and enhance the flavors to get the perfect drink that suits your taste and tolerance.

Dosing and Measuring

Start by knowing how much THC or CBD you want in your drink. Microdosing is a smart way to enjoy cannabis without feeling overwhelmed. Trusted products give you precise control, letting you add small, legal amounts of hemp-derived THC with ease. 

Use a dropper or a measuring spoon to add your cannabis tincture or oil. For beginners, start with 2.5 to 5 mg of THC. Track your dose and wait at least an hour before taking more. This helps avoid too strong a reaction. Remember, potency varies by product, so read labels carefully.

Mixing Techniques

To mix cannabis beverages well, first decarboxylate your cannabis if using flower or concentrates. This process activates THC and CBD. Then, create a tincture or syrup that is easy to blend into liquids. 

Add cannabis-infused drops or syrups to your chosen base like water, juice, or sparkling drinks. Stir gently but thoroughly. For carbonated drinks, pour slowly to keep the bubbles. Use cold liquids to maintain freshness. Infused herbal teas or lemonades also work great for clearer flavors.

Flavor Enhancement

Cannabis can have an earthy or herbal taste. Enhancing the flavor makes your drink more enjoyable. Use fresh herbs like mint, lemon, or ginger to brighten the taste. Sweeten with sugar, honey, or syrup if needed. Citrus juices pair well by cutting any bitterness. 

Adding SHAKE Glitter Drops gives a visual sparkle without altering flavor, making your beverage look festive and fun. Adjust flavors in small steps until you find your favorite balance. This turns your cannabis drink into a stylish, personal treat.

Popular Cannabis Beverage Recipes

You can create refreshing and versatile cannabis drinks at home using a few easy recipes. Whether you prefer something warm, tangy, or smooth, these options let you control the flavor and potency to suit your taste. Each recipe uses cannabis extracts or tinctures that mix well with everyday ingredients.

Cannabis-Infused Teas

Cannabis-infused tea is a simple way to enjoy cannabis with soothing warmth. Start by brewing your favorite tea—black, green, or herbal works well. Add a cannabis tincture or infused oil while the tea is hot, stirring until fully blended. 

You can sweeten your tea naturally with honey or lemon, which also enhances flavor. The warmth helps release cannabinoids gently, giving you a calm, comfortable experience. Teas made this way are great for relaxation or winding down after a long day. 

For variety, try adding spices like ginger or cinnamon. Remember, dosing is key—start with a small amount of cannabis tincture to gauge your tolerance.

THC Lemonade

THC lemonade combines a fresh, zesty drink with the gentle buzz of cannabis. To make it, mix fresh lemon juice, water, and a sweetener like agave or simple syrup. Then add your preferred cannabis tincture or microdose drops, stirring well. 

This drink is bright and refreshing, perfect for warm days or social moments. You can also use sparkling water instead of stillwater  for a fizzy twist. Keep your doses low to enjoy the uplifting effects without feeling overwhelmed. Add ice and fresh mint for extra refreshment. 

Using flavorless cannabis drops means the lemon shines without any earthy cannabis taste.

CBD Smoothies

CBD smoothies offer a creamy, nutritious way to enjoy cannabis without the high. Blend fruits like banana, berries, and spinach with yogurt or a milk alternative. Add a few drops of CBD oil or tincture and blend until smooth. 

These smoothies support a balanced vibe and are easy to customize with ingredients you love. They’re ideal for starting your day or refueling after exercise. The mild hemp taste usually blends well with fruit flavors. 

Use measured doses to keep control and add extras like chia seeds or protein powder for more nutrition. This option is quiet on effects but rich in relaxation benefits.

Safety, Dosage, and Responsible Consumption

When making cannabis beverages, paying close attention to dosage, potential effects, and storage is essential. Correct calculations help you control the experience, while understanding side effects keeps you safe. Proper labeling and storage protect everyone around you.

Accurate Dosage Calculations

Start by knowing the exact THC content in your cannabis product. For beginners, a low dose of 5 to 10 milligrams of THC per drink is a safe range. Measure carefully to avoid surprises. Use a precise scale or dose drops with tools designed for accuracy. 

Remember to wait at least one hour after drinking before taking more. Edibles and drinks may take longer to kick in than smoking. Track how much THC you consume each time. This helps you find your ideal dose without overdoing it.

Potential Side Effects

Cannabis affects people differently. Common side effects include dry mouth, dizziness, and mild anxiety. If you feel uncomfortable, stop consuming and hydrate. Stronger doses may cause drowsiness or altered coordination. 

Avoid mixing cannabis beverages with alcohol or other drugs. It can increase risks and make side effects worse. Use cannabis where you feel safe and relaxed to reduce any negative feelings. Always wait long enough to understand how it affects you before consuming more.

Safe Storage and Labeling

Store cannabis drinks out of reach of children and pets. Use clearly marked containers that show THC content and the date made. Labeling prevents accidental consumption and helps track potency over time. 

Keep beverages in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness and potency. Avoid leaving them in hot areas, which can degrade THC and flavor. If sharing, remind others about dosage and effects to support safe enjoyment for all.

Legal Considerations and Compliance

Understanding the legal rules is key before making cannabis beverages. You must follow laws around where you sell, who can buy, and how products are labeled.

Local Laws and Regulations

Cannabis beverage laws change a lot depending on where you are. Some states allow THC drinks with limits on potency, while others ban them entirely. You should check:

• The type of cannabis allowed (hemp-derived THC vs. cannabis flower)

• Maximum THC content per serving and per package

• Required testing and labeling standards

• Licensing rules for production and sales

Some places also ban certain cannabinoids like THC-P or THC-O unless approved by law. If you don’t meet local rules, your product could be seized, or you may face fines. 

Keep in mind that federal law still bans many cannabis products, but hemp-derived THC under 0.3% is legal under the Farm Bill. Your recipe and ingredients must meet these standards to avoid legal trouble.

Age Restrictions

You must only sell THC beverages to adults 21 years or older in most legal markets. This limit is strict and includes checking ID at the point of sale. Employ these safeguards:

• Train staff to verify age properly

• Use clear labels showing the 21+ requirement

• Prevent sales through online platforms without age verification

• Avoid marketing that targets minors or appears kid-friendly

Following age rules helps protect your brand from penalties and builds consumer trust.

Storing and Preserving Homemade Cannabis Drinks

To keep your cannabis drinks fresh and effective, you need to focus on how long they last and what kind of containers you use. Proper storage affects the taste, potency, and overall experience.

Shelf Life Recommendations

Cannabis beverages usually stay good for about 3 to 7 days in the fridge. After this, flavors may change, and the THC or CBD potency can drop. To get the best effects, keep your drinks cold and use them within this time. 

Avoid leaving your drinks out at room temperature for long periods. Heat and light can break down the active compounds in cannabis. If you want to keep your drinks longer, freeze them in small portions, but be aware that freezing can affect texture or flavor.

Key tips:

• Refrigerate immediately after making or opening.

• Use your drink within a week.

• Freeze only if necessary and in airtight containers.

Proper Container Selection

Choosing the right container helps keep your cannabis drink fresh and protects its potency. Use airtight bottles or jars made of glass or BPA-free plastic. Avoid containers that let air or light inside, as these speed up degradation. 

Dark or opaque containers work best because they block sunlight, which can reduce THC and CBD strength. After pouring your drink, seal the container tightly to minimize air contact.

Recommended containers:

Crafting Cannabis Drinks With Confidence

Making cannabis beverages at home gives you full control over flavor, dosage, and quality. By starting with decarboxylated cannabis and following simple infusion steps, you can create delicious drinks that match your desired effects. 

With SHAKE Glitter Drops, you can take this creativity further. Add hemp-derived THC and shimmer to elevate your drink with a safe, precise microdose. It’s the perfect way to combine artistry and enjoyment while staying within your comfort zone.

Start experimenting today with your own cannabis beverage recipes and bring a little sparkle to every sip. Explore, mix, and make it your way—responsibly and joyfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process for infusing beverages with THC?

You start by decarboxylating cannabis, which means heating it to activate THC. Then, infuse the activated cannabis into a base like oil or alcohol. Mix this infusion with your beverage, stirring well to spread THC evenly. 

Heating is key because raw cannabis won’t provide psychoactive effects until it’s decarbed. You can infuse teas, juices, or cocktails depending on your preference.

Can you detail the necessary steps for creating CBD-infused drinks at home?

Begin with CBD oil or tincture, which doesn’t require decarboxylation. Mix the CBD product into your chosen drink, like water, juice, or smoothies. Stir well to combine. Use trusted, lab-tested CBD sources forthe  best results.

How do you calculate the dosage for homemade cannabis-infused beverages?

Check the THC or CBD concentration in your extract or flower first. Calculate the total milligrams in your infusion. Divide by the number of servings to find each drink’s dose. Start with a low dose, like 2.5 to 5 mg THC, especially if you’re new. Adjust slowly based on how you feel.

What safety precautions should be taken when making marijuana-infused drinks?

Use clean equipment and measure doses carefully. Avoid overheating cannabis during decarboxylation to prevent loss of active compounds. Keep beverages clearly labeled and out of reach of children. Start with small doses and wait 1–2 hours before consuming more to avoid taking too much.

How can you ensure a consistent distribution of cannabis in liquid form?

Mix well after adding cannabis infusion to your beverage. Use emulsifiers or fat-based carriers like coconut oil to help THC mix better with liquids that aren’t fat-based. Stir or shake often before drinking, since cannabis compounds can separate over time.

Is there a difference in effect between ingesting cannabis drinks and smoking it?

Yes. When you ingest cannabis, it takes longer to feel effects—usually 30–90 minutes—because it must be digested. Effects last longer, often 4–6 hours. Smoking works faster, within minutes, but the effects fade sooner. Drinks offer a discreet and often smoother experience.