As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, winter is the perfect time to cozy up with warm, comforting foods. For those who enjoy incorporating cannabis into their lifestyle, edibles can add an extra touch of relaxation and comfort to your winter evenings. At Stink Blossom, we’re here to share some simple, cannabis-infused recipes that are perfect for the colder months. We’ll also highlight the benefits of using specific strains to promote relaxation and a sense of warmth during the season.
The Benefits of Cannabis for Winter Comfort
Cannabis can be a powerful ally for winter wellness, helping to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and support restful sleep. Strains high in terpenes like myrcene and linalool are particularly suited for creating a cozy, calm atmosphere, while strains with a touch of limonene can lift the mood and combat winter blues. When used in moderation, cannabis-infused foods can elevate your comfort food experience and make winter days feel a little brighter.
Cannabis-Infused Comfort Food Recipes
Here are a few easy-to-make recipes that incorporate cannabis for a warm and comforting winter treat. Be sure to calculate dosages carefully and start with a lower amount if you’re new to making edibles.
1. Cannabis-Infused Hot Chocolate
There’s nothing like a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. Adding cannabis-infused milk or cream can turn this classic treat into a soothing experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole milk (or a non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp sugar or your preferred sweetener
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp cannabis-infused milk or cream (adjust dosage as needed)
- Whipped cream and marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions: Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm, then whisk in the cocoa powder and sugar. Stir until fully combined, then add the vanilla extract and cannabis-infused milk. Continue to stir for a minute, then pour into a mug and top with whipped cream and marshmallows.
Strain Pairing: Granddaddy Purple or Northern Lights are ideal strains for infusing into your milk or cream, as their high myrcene content promotes deep relaxation.
2. Cannabis-Infused Banana Bread
Banana bread is a classic winter comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea. Infusing it with cannabis butter (cannabutter) adds a touch of warmth and relaxation.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup cannabis-infused butter (adjust dosage as needed)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, cannabutter, sugar, egg, and vanilla. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the flour until well blended. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing.
Strain Pairing: Infuse your butter with a strain like Blue Dream or Harlequin for a balanced experience that offers gentle euphoria and relaxation without heavy sedation.
3. Creamy Cannabis-Infused Tomato Soup
A warm bowl of tomato soup is a winter staple. This simple recipe adds a touch of cannabis-infused olive oil for an extra layer of comfort.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp cannabis-infused olive oil (adjust dosage as needed)
- 1 tbsp regular olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions: In a pot, heat the regular olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Blend the soup with an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender. Stir in the cannabis-infused olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Strain Pairing: Use a strain like Lemon Haze for its limonene content, which adds a subtle uplifting touch to the cozy, warm flavors of the soup.
Tips for Safe Dosing
When making cannabis-infused edibles, it’s important to dose carefully:
- Start Low and Go Slow: Begin with a small amount of cannabis-infused oil or butter to control the strength of your edibles. You can always add more in future recipes if needed.
- Label Your Edibles: Make sure to clearly label any cannabis-infused foods and store them safely, away from children and pets.
- Be Patient: Edibles take longer to kick in than inhaled cannabis, often taking 30-90 minutes to feel the effects. Wait at least 90 minutes before consuming more to avoid overconsumption.
Choosing the Right Strains for Winter Comfort
Choosing the right strain for your infused dishes is key to enhancing relaxation and comfort. Here are a few strain recommendations available at Stink Blossom:
- Granddaddy Purple – A classic indica with high myrcene content, perfect for winding down on a cold winter night. It provides a calming, full-body relaxation that pairs well with evening comfort foods.
- Harlequin – A balanced, CBD-rich strain that offers calming effects without a strong high. This is ideal for seniors or those looking for a mellow experience that won’t disrupt their day.
- Lemon Haze – For those looking to lift their mood during the winter blues, Lemon Haze offers an energizing and cheerful experience with its limonene-rich profile.
Final Thoughts
Winter is the perfect season to cozy up with cannabis-infused comfort foods that warm the soul and relax the body. Whether you’re sipping on a creamy cup of cannabis-infused hot chocolate or indulging in a slice of banana bread, adding a touch of cannabis can make the cold months feel a little brighter. At Stink Blossom, your Billings dispensary, we’re here to help you find the perfect strains and products to make your winter comforting and enjoyable.
Visit us at Stink Blossom to explore our wide selection of strains, edibles, and infused products. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you choose the best options for your winter wellness needs.
Please Note: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consume cannabis responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.