Sweet Highs Ahead: Mastering Cannabis Brownies and Other Infused Treats

Indulging in Sweet Highs: The Basics of Cannabis Treats

Cannabis infused treats are edible products that contain active cannabis compounds, offering a smoke-free alternative to enjoying the benefits of marijuana. For those looking to create homemade cannabis edibles, here’s what you need to know:

When making cannabis infused treats at home, the most critical step is proper decarboxylation—heating your cannabis to activate the THC—before infusing it into butter or oil. This process transforms the raw plant material into a potent cooking ingredient that can be incorporated into virtually any recipe.

The beauty of homemade edibles lies in complete control over ingredients, potency, and flavors. Whether you’re craving fudgy brownies, chewy cookies, or even savory options like infused pasta sauce, the possibilities are endless once you master the basics of infusion.

I’m Chris Kuilan, Co-Founder of Stoops NYC Dispensary, where we’ve helped countless New Yorkers find the joy of premium cannabis infused treats through our curated selection and educational workshops on responsible consumption and home preparation techniques.

Cannabis-Infused Treats 101: What Sets Them Apart

Ever wonder why eating a cannabis brownie feels so different from taking a puff? Let me break it down for you in simple terms.

Cannabis infused treats are food products that contain active cannabis compounds—but they work through your body in a completely different way than smoking does. When you smoke, THC zooms straight to your bloodstream through your lungs. When you eat a delicious cannabis infused treat, it takes the scenic route instead.

Your body processes edibles through a four-step journey:

First, they’re broken down in your stomach. Then, the good stuff gets absorbed through your small intestine. Next comes the game-changer—your liver transforms THC into a compound called 11-hydroxy-THC. Finally, this boostd version enters your bloodstream and makes its way to your brain.

This digestive detour explains why you might wait 1-3 hours before feeling effects from cannabis infused treats, unlike the almost-instant impact of smoking. It’s also why the high typically lasts much longer—anywhere from 4-8 hours, depending on your metabolism, what you’ve eaten that day, and your personal body chemistry.

One of the best things about making your own cannabis infused treats at home? Complete control over potency. You can create precisely the experience you want, whether that’s a gentle microdose or something more substantial for experienced consumers.

More info about edibles

Why They Hit Differently

That whole “edibles hit harder” reputation isn’t just cannabis folklore—it’s actual biology at work! The difference comes down to something called first-pass metabolism.

When your liver processes THC from edibles, it creates 11-hydroxy-THC, which crosses into your brain more efficiently than regular THC. This change is why cannabis infused treats often create:

• A more intense, full-body experience
• Effects that feel more physically grounding
• A high that builds more slowly but peaks more dramatically
• Relief that lasts significantly longer than smoking

Many of our customers at Stoops NYC describe edible effects as more immersive and physical compared to smoking’s more cerebral experience. This deeper body sensation makes cannabis infused treats particularly popular for people seeking pain relief, help with sleep, or profound relaxation.

Just remember—this isn’t simply a different way to consume cannabis, it’s almost an entirely different experience. That’s why we always recommend starting with a low dose, especially if you’re new to edibles. The journey might take longer to begin, but it’s worth the wait!

Choosing Your Perfect Cannabis Infused Treat

Gone are the days when cannabis infused treats meant just a hastily-made pot brownie wrapped in foil. Today’s edible landscape is bursting with options that cater to every taste, dietary need, and desired experience.

Brownies, the Ever-Green Classic

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about cannabis brownies. They’ve maintained their crown as America’s favorite edible for good reason – that perfect fudgy texture creates a delicious vehicle for cannabutter that’s hard to beat.

At Stoops NYC, our customers often share that their perfect homemade cannabis infused treats start with a brownie base that’s rich and moist – never cakey or dry. The secret? Balance your cannabutter-to-regular butter ratio (many home bakers find a 1:1 ratio works beautifully) and use high-quality cocoa.

Want to lift your brownie game? Try adding a cannabis-infused ganache topping or swirling in some caramel before baking. The dense, chocolatey profile naturally complements those earthy cannabis notes, making brownies the perfect canvas for beginners and experts alike.

Gummies & Candies on the Rise

“What’s your favorite flavor?” is something we hear daily at the shop as customers browse our gummy selection. These chewy, colorful cannabis infused treats have exploded in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing segment in the edibles market.

The gummy revolution makes perfect sense when you consider their advantages. They offer precise dosing (typically 5-10mg per piece), making them ideal for new users or those who want consistent effects. Their discreet nature, extended shelf life, and portability make them perfect for on-the-go use.

I’ve noticed many of our first-time customers gravitate toward gummies because they’re approachable and familiar. Plus, the variety is endless – from traditional fruit flavors to sophisticated combinations like watermelon-basil or mango-chili. Many brands now offer vegan, sugar-free, and gluten-free options too, making these cannabis infused treats accessible to almost everyone.

More info about Gummies
More info about Chocolates

Sips, Sauces & Savories

While sweet treats dominate the edibles conversation, the savory side of cannabis infused treats deserves serious attention. These options open up a whole new world of cannabis enjoyment beyond dessert.

Cannabis beverages have been a game-changer for many of our customers. Unlike traditional edibles, these drinks often kick in within 15-30 minutes thanks to sublingual absorption. From sparkling seltzers to cannabis-infused teas and coffees, these products offer a social alternative to alcohol with more predictable effects than other edibles.

One of my personal favorites to recommend are infused savory snacks like cannabis popcorn. There’s something magical about settling in for movie night with a bowl of perfectly seasoned chili-lime or truffle cannabis popcorn – just be mindful of portion control, as it’s easy to munch mindlessly!

Perhaps the most exciting development I’ve seen in my time at Stoops NYC is the rise of cannabis-infused cooking ingredients. Imagine elevating your pasta night with a cannabis-infused marinara or adding a special kick to your wings with infused buffalo sauce. These products transform ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences, blurring the line between recreational products and functional cooking elements.

More info about Drinks

Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or sippable, today’s world of cannabis infused treats offers something for every palate. Stop by our Flatiron shop, and we’ll help you find your perfect match – or the ingredients to create your own edible masterpiece at home.

From Flower to Flour: Infusion Techniques for Home Cooks

Making your own cannabis infused treats at home starts with one essential skill: infusion. I’ve helped countless customers at Stoops NYC transform their ordinary kitchen into a cannabis bakery, and it all begins with understanding how to properly prepare your cannabis.

Decarboxylation: The Essential First Step

Think of decarboxylation as “activating” your cannabis. Without this crucial step, you’ll end up with treats that look the part but lack any meaningful effects.

Here’s my foolproof method that works every time:

Preheat your oven to 240°F, break your flower into small pieces (not too fine!), and spread it evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. After about 40 minutes in the oven—stirring once halfway through—your cannabis should transform from bright green to a light toasty brown. That color change tells you the THCA has converted to THC, meaning your cannabis is now ready for infusion!

Choosing Your Strain Wisely

The strain you select dramatically shapes your experience. When customers visit us at Stoops NYC, I always ask what effect they’re looking for before recommending a strain for their homemade cannabis infused treats.

Indica strains typically deliver that classic “body high”—perfect for evening brownies or treats meant for relaxation. Sativa strains tend to produce more uplifting, cerebral effects, making them ideal for daytime consumption. Hybrid strains offer balanced effects that can be custom to specific needs.

I always recommend keeping a little “edibles journal” to track which strains create your favorite effects. Trust me, your future self will thank you!

Cannabutter Basics

Cannabutter is the gateway to most cannabis infused treats, and while it might seem intimidating, it’s actually quite simple. Here’s the method I’ve refined over years of baking:

Start with 1 cup of butter (2 sticks) and 1 cup of water in a saucepan over low heat. Once the butter melts, add 7-14 grams of your decarboxylated cannabis (less for beginners, more for experienced users). The key is maintaining a gentle simmer—never a boil—for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

After infusion, strain the mixture through cheesecloth into a container and refrigerate. The butter will solidify on top, while the water (containing unwanted plant material) settles below. Simply remove the solid butter, discard the water, and voilà—you’ve got cannabutter!

Store your creation in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze it for up to six months. For dosage, if you used 10 grams of 15% THC cannabis, your entire batch contains approximately 1500mg THC. Dividing that into 24 brownies gives you about 62.5mg per brownie—quite potent for most folks!

Cooking & Baking Edibles

Potent Oils & Tinctures

While cannabutter is the classic choice, cannabis-infused oils offer fantastic alternatives for your cannabis infused treats. Coconut oil is my personal favorite—its high fat content absorbs more cannabinoids than other oils, making for more potent infusions. It works beautifully in both sweet and savory recipes and is perfect for vegan baking.

Olive oil infusions are wonderful for savory applications—think pasta dishes, salad dressings, or bread dipping. The lighter flavor profile complements many meals without overpowering them.

For the ultimate in precision dosing, cannabis tinctures can’t be beat. Made with high-proof alcohol or glycerin, tinctures can be added to nearly any recipe without affecting texture. They’re especially handy for adding to beverages or adjusting potency after cooking.

My pro tip? Add a bit of lecithin to your oil infusions. This natural emulsifier helps bind cannabinoids to fat molecules, potentially increasing potency and creating more consistent distribution throughout your cannabis infused treats. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference!

Dosing & Effects: Start Low, Go Slow

The golden rule when enjoying cannabis infused treats is simple: “start low, go slow.” This isn’t just catchy advice—it’s the difference between a delightful experience and an overwhelming one.

At Stoops NYC, we’ve guided countless customers through their first edible experiences, and proper dosing is always our first conversation. Here’s what we recommend:

1-2.5mg THC is perfect for microdosing—you’ll feel subtle effects that improve your day without overtaking it. This is ideal for beginners or daytime use.

5mg THC is our standard recommendation for newcomers. You’ll experience gentle euphoria and relaxation without feeling overwhelmed.

10-15mg THC works well for regular consumers who understand how their body responds to cannabis.

20-30mg THC is a high dose territory—only for experienced edible users who know exactly what they’re doing.

50mg+ THC ventures into very high dose range, typically reserved for medical users with significant tolerance.

Your body weight, metabolism, what you’ve eaten that day, and even your mood can all influence how cannabis infused treats affect you. When making homemade edibles, always sample a small piece first, wait the full two hours to assess effects, and adjust your next dose based on that experience.

What to Expect & When

The timeline of effects with cannabis infused treats is dramatically different from smoking, and understanding this journey helps prevent the most common mistake—getting impatient and taking more too soon.

During the first 30 minutes, you’ll likely feel nothing at all. This is normal! Your digestive system is just beginning to process the edible.

Between 30-60 minutes, some people may begin to notice very mild effects, especially on an empty stomach. But for many, the waiting game continues.

The 1-2 hour mark is when most people begin to feel definite effects. This is when patience pays off—the cannabinoids are entering your bloodstream after being processed by your liver.

At 2-3 hours, you’ll typically reach peak effects. This is when the full experience unfolds and you’ll understand your dosing choice for better or worse.

The 3-6 hour period brings sustained effects that gradually modulate. Unlike smoking, which quickly peaks and fades, edibles maintain a more consistent experience.

Finally, the 6-8+ hour window brings a gradual tapering off. Some people report feeling residual effects even into the next morning after high doses.

For comfortable navigation of this extended timeline:
– Stay well-hydrated throughout your experience
– Have non-infused snacks ready (the munchies are real!)
– Clear your schedule appropriately—no driving or important meetings
– Create a comfortable environment where you can relax

The prolonged journey of cannabis infused treats is part of their appeal for many, offering a sustained experience without the need to continuously consume. Just remember that this extended timeline requires planning ahead!

Scientific research on edible metabolism

Safety, Storage & NYC Legal Know-How

Let’s talk about keeping those cannabis infused treats safe and legal—because nothing ruins a good high like an unexpected problem!

When I first started making edibles at home, I learned the hard way about proper storage (melted chocolate gummies, anyone?). At Stoops NYC, we’re always sharing these practical tips with our customers to ensure everyone enjoys their treats responsibly.

Your homemade cannabis infused treats deserve proper protection—both to maintain their potency and keep them away from the wrong hands. Always store them in airtight containers away from direct light, which can break down those precious cannabinoids faster than you’d think. For baked goods like brownies, room temperature works fine for a few days, but the refrigerator extends freshness to about a week.

Those delicious chocolates and gummies? They definitely need refrigeration to maintain both texture and potency. If you’re planning for the long haul, the freezer is your friend—properly sealed cannabis infused treats, butter, or oils can last up to six months frozen.

Here’s where I get serious for a moment—always clearly label everything containing cannabis. A simple “Contains THC” sticker has prevented countless accidental consumption stories. If children might be around, invest in childproof containers or, better yet, keep everything in a locked box or cabinet. That “special brownie” mix-up isn’t funny when it actually happens!

For my fellow New Yorkers, here’s what you need to know about staying legal with your cannabis infused treats:

• Adults 21+ can legally possess up to 3 ounces of cannabis flower or 24 grams of concentrate
• Enjoy your edibles in private spaces—public consumption is limited to designated areas
• Never, ever drive after consuming cannabis products (the extended duration of edibles makes this especially important)
• While home cultivation has been approved, implementation details are still evolving
• Selling homemade edibles without a license remains illegal—keep those special brownies for personal enjoyment

We’re fortunate that New York has acceptd progressive cannabis laws, but they come with responsibilities. At Stoops NYC in the Flatiron District, we stay current with all regulations so you don’t have to memorize the legal fine print—just stop by and ask us anything!

Speaking of New York-specific information, if you’re interested in the growing cannabis beverage scene in the city, check out our guide: More info about NYC cannabis beverages.

The key to truly enjoying your cannabis infused treats is knowing they’re stored properly, consumed responsibly, and completely legal. A little preparation means you can focus on the experience, not the logistics!

DIY Recipe Spotlight: Classic Brownies & Creative Cannabis Infused Treats

Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals, let’s dive into some delicious recipes that I’ve personally tested (and retested!) in my kitchen. These cannabis infused treats have been refined through countless batches and customer feedback at Stoops NYC.

Ultimate Cannabis Brownies: Fudgy & Fail-Safe

There’s something magical about a perfectly fudgy brownie – that crackly top, the gooey center, and in this case, a gentle lift that makes movie night or a hangout with friends extra special. These brownies strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate flavor and cannabis effects.

Ingredients:
– ½ cup all-purpose flour
– ⅓ cup cocoa powder (the darker, the better!)
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ cup cannabutter
– ¼ cup regular unsalted butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips

For the Ganache (Optional but highly recommended):
– 4 oz chocolate chips
– ¼ cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon cannabutter

The secret to these brownies is the 15-17 minute bake time – they’ll look slightly underdone in the center, but that’s exactly what you want! This ensures they stay fudgy even after cooling. The ganache adds an extra touch of luxury and a subtle boost to the overall experience.

These brownies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy your cannabis infused treats in moderation over time. Just wrap individual pieces in parchment and store in a freezer-safe container – future you will be very thankful!

Step-by-step brownie guide

Magic Rice Crispy Treats: Gooey Nostalgia

There’s something about rice crispy treats that brings us right back to childhood – except these grown-up versions come with benefits our younger selves couldn’t have imagined! These are among the easiest cannabis infused treats to make, perfect for beginners.

The trick to perfect rice crispy treats is using cannabis-infused ghee instead of regular cannabutter. The clarified butter creates a cleaner flavor and better texture. Each square contains approximately 5mg THC (depending on your infusion strength), making them perfect for portion control.

What makes these extra special is the customization options. I love adding a handful of crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before they set. For chocolate lovers, fold in some mini chocolate chips after the mixture has cooled slightly (so they don’t completely melt).

Store these in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking, and they’ll stay fresh for about 3 days at room temperature – though they rarely last that long in my experience!

cannabis infused rice crispy treats

Zesty THC Gummies: Vegan Fruit Chews

Store-bought gummies are great, but there’s something special about crafting your own cannabis infused treats with precisely the flavors and dosage you prefer. These vegan fruit chews use agar-agar instead of gelatin, making them suitable for plant-based diets.

The fruit purée is where you can really make these your own. Strawberry-lime is a classic combination, but don’t be afraid to experiment with mango-chili, blueberry-lemon, or even watermelon-mint for something unexpected. The citric acid dusting on the outside gives them that perfect sweet-tart balance that makes gummies so addictive.

For the most precise dosing, invest in a good silicone mold with uniform cavities. This allows you to calculate exactly how much cannabis is in each piece. I find that smaller gummies (about 5mg THC each) are ideal – you can always have a second one if needed, but you can’t “un-eat” a too-potent gummy!

The air-drying step might seem tedious, but it’s essential for achieving that chewy texture we all love in a good gummy. Patience pays off with these little treats!

Savory Movie-Night Popcorn

Not everyone has a sweet tooth, and this savory option proves that cannabis infused treats don’t have to be desserts. This chili-lime popcorn is my go-to for movie nights with friends who prefer a more subtle cannabis experience.

The beauty of infused popcorn is the low dose – approximately 2mg THC per cup – which makes it perfect for social settings where you want to maintain conversation and actually remember the movie you’re watching! The fat in the coconut oil helps carry the cannabis compounds while the zesty seasoning creates a flavor so good, you’ll make it even when you’re not looking for infusion.

Portion control is key with this recipe. I like to divide the finished popcorn into individual paper bags or bowls right away, rather than setting out one big communal bowl. This prevents the “handful after handful” scenario that can lead to accidental overconsumption.

For an extra-special touch, try making multiple seasoning variations in separate bowls – perhaps a curry powder version or a garlic-parmesan option alongside the chili-lime. Just remember to keep clear labels on each!

At Stoops NYC, we love hearing about our customers’ homemade cannabis infused treats trips. Whether you’re a baking novice or a culinary cannabis expert, these recipes provide a foundation for delicious exploration within the legal limits of New York’s adult-use cannabis program.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cannabis-Infused Treats

How long should I wait before taking a second dose?

The golden rule with cannabis infused treats is patience. I always tell my customers at Stoops NYC to wait a full 2-3 hours before even thinking about a second dose. Your digestive system works at its own pace, and cannabis edibles can sometimes take longer than expected to kick in.

The scenario we see most often with overconsumption? Someone takes an edible, feels nothing after 45 minutes, decides it “isn’t working,” takes more, and then both doses hit simultaneously. Trust me, you’ll have a much better experience if you give your body time to process that first dose completely.

What’s the best beginner dose for brownies or gummies?

For first-timers exploring cannabis infused treats, I recommend starting with just 2.5-5mg of THC. This gentle introduction allows you to experience the effects without feeling overwhelmed.

When making homemade edibles, this might mean cutting your brownie into smaller portions than you’d think. At Stoops NYC, we often suggest that newcomers start with half of what’s considered a “beginner” dose on commercial products. Everyone’s body chemistry is different, and it’s always easier to increase your dose next time than to deal with taking too much.

Can I fly with homemade cannabis infused treats?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but no—you cannot legally fly with homemade cannabis infused treats, even between states where cannabis is legal. This is because airports and airplanes fall under federal jurisdiction, and cannabis remains federally illegal.

Crossing state lines with cannabis products constitutes interstate trafficking under federal law, regardless of the legal status in your departure and arrival states. My advice? Enjoy your homemade treats at home and, if you’re traveling to another state with legal cannabis, purchase products locally when you arrive.

How do I know the exact potency of my homemade edibles?

Without professional lab testing, it’s impossible to know the precise potency of your homemade cannabis infused treats. However, you can make a reasonable estimate by:

Starting with your flower’s approximate THC percentage (typically 15-25% for quality cannabis), calculating the total milligrams (1 gram of 20% THC cannabis contains about 200mg THC), assuming 70-80% efficiency in your decarboxylation and infusion process, and dividing by your number of servings.

For example, if you use 3.5g of 20% THC cannabis (approximately 700mg THC total) with 75% efficiency (525mg), and make 20 brownies, each brownie would contain about 26mg THC—which is actually quite potent for many users!

Will CBD edibles make me feel high?

No, CBD-only cannabis infused treats won’t produce the intoxicating “high” you might associate with traditional edibles. CBD (cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive, offering more subtle effects that many people describe as relaxing, pain-relieving, or anxiety-reducing.

Many of our customers at Stoops NYC specifically choose CBD edibles because they want potential therapeutic benefits without feeling impaired. We offer various CBD-dominant and balanced CBD:THC products for folks seeking different experiences, from fully functional to gently relaxed.

How can I reduce the cannabis flavor in my edibles?

Not everyone loves that distinctive herbal taste in their cannabis infused treats. To minimize it, try water-curing your cannabis before decarboxylation (soaking it in water for 4-7 days, changing water daily), using water when making cannabutter to help remove chlorophyll, and choosing recipes with bold flavors like chocolate, spices, or citrus that can mask the cannabis notes.

I’ve found that adding complementary flavors like mint, coffee, or cinnamon works wonderfully, as they naturally pair with cannabis’s earthy profile. Some of our customers also prefer using concentrates instead of flower for infusion, as they typically impart less plant flavor while maintaining potency.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about creating your own cannabis infused treats at home. It’s not just about the end product—it’s about the journey of crafting something uniquely yours, perfectly suited to your taste and desired experience.

Throughout this guide, we’ve explored everything from the chemistry of decarboxylation to the artistry of crafting the perfect fudgy brownie. Whether you’re drawn to classic recipes or innovative creations, cannabis edibles offers endless possibilities for culinary exploration.

As you venture into making your own cannabis infused treats, keep these golden rules in mind:

The decarboxylation step isn’t optional—it’s essential for activating THC and ensuring your treats actually work. Your patience during the “start low, go slow” approach will reward you with consistently enjoyable experiences without the anxiety of overconsumption. And always, always label your creations clearly and store them safely away from children and pets.

I’ve seen countless customers at Stoops NYC transform from nervous beginners to confident cannabis chefs after just a few successful batches of homemade edibles. There’s a special pride that comes from sharing a perfectly dosed treat with friends (where legal) or finding that ideal personal dose that helps you unwind after a long day.

Edibles demand respect—their effects last longer and often feel more potent than smoking. Plan your consumption accordingly, especially when trying new recipes or strains. The difference between a delightful evening and an overwhelming experience often comes down to just a few milligrams of THC.

Here at Stoops NYC in the Flatiron District, we love talking edibles with our community. Whether you’re looking for ready-made products from trusted New York brands or seeking advice on your home creations, our team is always eager to share knowledge in our welcoming, judgment-free space.

Stop by to explore our carefully curated selection of edibles or chat with our staff about your cooking trips. After all, cannabis culture is at its best when it brings people together—and what better way to connect than through delicious cannabis infused treats?

Explore Stoops NYC’s full edible lineup and find your next favorite edible experience, just a stroll away in the heart of Manhattan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cannabis Edibles

What’s the biggest mistake beginners make with homemade edibles?
Impatience is the number one issue we see. Many people don’t wait long enough for effects to fully develop before taking more, leading to uncomfortable experiences.

Can I use any strain for making edibles?
Yes, but the effects will vary. Indica strains typically produce more relaxing body effects, while sativas tend toward energetic, cerebral experiences. Consider your desired outcome when selecting.

How long do homemade cannabis edibles stay good?
Properly stored in airtight containers, brownies and cookies last 5-7 days at room temperature or 2-3 weeks refrigerated. Gummies and chocolates should be refrigerated and can last 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, most cannabis infused treats freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.

Is it legal to make edibles at home in New York?
Adults 21+ can legally possess cannabis and make edibles for personal consumption in New York. However, selling homemade edibles remains illegal without proper licensing.

What foods pair well with cannabis edibles?
Fatty foods can sometimes improve absorption, while citrus fruits might complement the experience through terpene interaction. Stay hydrated with plenty of water, and have some CBD-only products on hand to help moderate THC effects if needed.