Cannabis beverages are a growing trend, and it’s easy to understand why. From CBD-infused coffee to THC microdose sodas, there are seemingly endless flavors and styles that can be used to make stoney signature drinks in place of traditional cocktails.
While no one is trying to take away our precious margaritas or frosé, reducing alcohol consumption in general is increasingly popular among people of all ages. With physical and mental well-being seen top priority, cannabis drinks can satisfy the thirst for delicious beverages that provide relaxation without hangovers or added calories.
Part of the fun of cocktails is the element of craft that goes into them. Of course, the many ready-to-drink cannabis beverages can be enjoyed on their own as an alternative to alcoholic tipples, but for those who crave the ritual of mixing something unique in their home bar — or for those who want to enjoy a complex drink that equal more than the sum of its parts — these recipes are for you.
The concoctions below use a combination of pre-made infused beverages and tinctures. Any type of tincture, such as full-spectrum hemp, CBD or THC, will work, though we are partial to nano tinctures that are made specifically for beverages since they mix in easily and don’t change the flavor profile.
How to make delicious cannabis-infused cocktails
Before you start mixing, there’s a few tried-and-true tips you should have at your disposal for the best canna-cocktail experience:
- After following a recipe, periodically taste and adjust the amounts of each ingredient to create your ideal balance.
- Add your own flare: play around with garnishes to put a personalized stamp on homemade drinks. Try anything from cinnamon sticks to fresh figs.
Why lemony hemp shandy
A shandy is a cocktail that traditionally combines lemonade and beer for a refreshing drink. This updated version uses hemp infused lemonade and subs in kombucha for the beer. Kombucha is a fermented tea full of probiotics with a tangy flavor and slightly effervescent texture; it’s easy to make at home, and can also be found at most grocery stores in a variety of flavors. Virtually any flavor will work for this recipe, tasty options include lavender, citrus, mango , and even spicy flavors like ginger or cayenne.
Ingredients:
- 6 oz infused lemonade or regular lemonade plus tincture of choice
- 6 oz Kombucha of choice
- Ice
- Lemon slices
Method:
- Combine ingredients in a tall glass over ice, garnish with lemon slices.
Product we used: Kickback Hemp Infused Lemony Lemonade
Only five grams of sugar per bottle, Kickback’s Hemp Infused Lemonade feels light and fresh for an afternoon in the sun.
Available: Nationwide
Photos by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps
