Hemp chocolate is a unique treat that combines the taste of classic chocolate with the potential benefits of cannabinoids such as CBD or THC. Preparing it at home is easier than you think, and the end result can be both delicious and relaxing. In this article, we provide a detailed guide on how to make your own hemp chocolate, from ingredient selection to storage tips.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cannabis enthusiast, this recipe will allow you to create a unique dessert that will delight your palate. Here we go!
Why make hemp chocolate?
Hemp chocolate is not only a delicious way to enjoy sweets, but also an opportunity to incorporate cannabinoids into your daily diet in a tasty form. Cannabis-infused food products, known as edibles, are popular for their discreet consumption and long-lasting effects. Unlike vaporizing or smoking, chocolate with CBD or THC is slower acting, but the effects can last for 4-8 hours, which is ideal for those seeking relaxation or support for pain and stress relief.
Homemade chocolate allows you to control the quality of the ingredients, the dosage of cannabinoids and customize the taste to your own preferences. What's more, preparing it yourself is economical and gives you the satisfaction of creating something special. In Poland, where cannabis seeds with THC below 0.2% are legal, you can experiment with CBD to create safe and legal treats.
Key ingredients for hemp chocolate
To make hemp chocolate, you need a few basic ingredients to ensure both flavor and consistency. The key ingredient is high-quality chocolate - dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa), milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your preference. Cocoa powder can be added for a more intense flavor. Another essential ingredient is a source of cannabinoids, such as CBD oil, hemp butter (from decarboxylated dried hemp) or hemp extract.
It's important to choose a lab-certified product that confirms its cannabinoid content and lack of impurities. For this, you need a fat, such as coconut oil or cocoa butter, which helps absorb the cannabinoids and makes the chocolate smooth. Optionally, you can add sweeteners (honey, maple syrup), nuts, dried fruit, vanilla or sea salt to enhance the flavor. Make sure all ingredients are fresh and from trusted sources for best results.
Decarboxylation: the first step to success
Decarboxylation is the key process that activates cannabinoids in cannabis, converting THCA into THC or CBDA into CBD, for example. Without this step, cannabinoids remain in an acidic form, greatly reducing their effects. To decarboxylate dried hemp, preheat your oven to 120-140°C. Spread the decarboxylated dried evenly on a baking sheet lined with baking paper and bake for 20-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to avoid burning. Once cooled, the dried should be slightly brown in color and have an intense "bakery" smell.
This process is necessary if you are using dried hemp to prepare hemp butter or oil. If you are using ready-made CBD oil, decarboxylation is not necessary, as most products on the market are already activated. Proper decarboxylation ensures that your chocolate will have the desired properties, whether relaxing or therapeutic.
Preparation of hemp butter or oil
Hemp butter or oil is a carrier of cannabinoids, which combines with chocolate to give it hemp properties. To prepare hemp butter, melt 100 g of butter in a water bath (over low heat) and add 5-10 g of decarboxylated dried hemp. Cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to allow the cannabinoids to penetrate the fat.
Then strain the mixture through gauze to remove plant debris, and cool. Alternatively, you can use coconut oil, which is just as effective and easier to store. If you prefer ready-made CBD oil, choose a product with a known concentration (such as 5% or 10%), which makes it easier to control the dosage. It is important not to overheat the mixture above 160°C, as this can degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes, reducing the quality of the product. Store the finished butter or oil in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Step-by-step recipe for hemp chocolate
Here's a simple recipe for homemade hemp chocolate with CBD or THC that you can customize to your liking:
Ingredients:
- 200 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa)
- 50 g coconut oil or cocoa butter
- 2-3 tablespoons of hemp butter or 10-20 drops of CBD oil (adjust dosage as needed)
- 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 50 g chopped nuts, dried fruit or a pinch of sea salt (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Melt the chocolate: Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in a water bath, stirring until you have a smooth paste. Keep the temperature below 60°C so as not to destroy the cannabinoids.
- Add hemp butter or CBD oil: Stir in hemp butter or CBD oil, combining thoroughly with chocolate. Add honey and vanilla, if using.
- Enrich the taste: Add nuts, fruit or sea salt, stirring gently to evenly distribute the additives.
- Pour into the molds: Pour the mixture into silicone chocolate molds or onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Smooth the surface.
- Cool down: Put the molds in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until the chocolate hardens.
- Store: Remove the chocolates from the molds and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.
This recipe allows for flexibility - you can change the proportions, additives or type of chocolate to create the perfect flavor.
How to dose cannabinoids in chocolate?
Cannabinoid dosage is a key aspect of preparing hemp chocolate, as too high a dose can cause unwanted effects such as drowsiness or anxiety, and too low a dose can be ineffective. For CBD, beginners should start with 5-10 mg per serving (1-2 chocolates). If you use CBD oil, check the concentration on the package - for example, there is 500 mg of CBD in 10 ml of 5% oil, and 1 drop is about 2.5 mg.
For cannabis butter, calculating the dose is more difficult, but it is assumed that 1 g of dried 10% THC or CBD content yields about 100 mg of cannabinoids after decarboxylation (including losses). Divide the mass of chocolate into equal portions so that each has a predictable dose. Always start with a small amount and watch your body's reaction for 1-2 hours before consuming more.
For THC, which is psychoactive and illegal in Poland in concentrations above 0.2%, use caution and follow local laws.
Tips for beginners
Preparing hemp chocolate can be a challenge for novices, but a few tips will make the process easier. First, invest in good-quality ingredients - cheap chocolate or low-quality CBD oil can spoil the taste and effect.
Second, carefully control the temperature when melting chocolate and preparing hemp butter to avoid degrading cannabinoids.
Third, use silicone molds, which make it easier to take out the finished chocolates.
Fourth, label your products to avoid accidental ingestion, especially if there are children in the house. Finally, be patient - edibles work more slowly than other methods, so don't increase the dose too quickly.
If you are in doubt about dosage or legality, consult an expert or doctor, especially if you are using cannabis for medical purposes.
Storage and shelf life of hemp chocolate
In order for hemp chocolate to retain its flavor and properties, store it under proper conditions. Place the chocolates in an airtight dark glass or plastic container and keep them in the refrigerator at 4-8°C. Low temperatures prevent oxidation of cannabinoids and maintain the consistency of the chocolate.
Avoid exposure to light, humidity and high temperatures, which can degrade cannabinoids and cause additives such as fruit to mold. When stored properly, chocolate stays fresh for 2-3 weeks. If you want to store it longer, place it in the freezer in an airtight container - it can last up to 2 months, although the flavor may lose some intensity. Always check the smell and texture before consuming to make sure the product is still good.
Security and legal aspects
Safety is a priority when preparing and consuming hemp chocolate. In Poland, hemp products containing less than 0.2% THC, such as CBD oil or dried hemp from certified crops, are legal. Using hemp with higher concentrations of THC is illegal and can lead to legal consequences. Make sure you buy ingredients from reputable suppliers with certificates of analysis (COAs) that confirm the composition and absence of contaminants.
When consuming edibles, always start with a low dose and avoid combining with alcohol or other substances that can intensify the effects. Keep chocolate out of the reach of children and pets, preferably in a labeled container. If you use cannabis for medical purposes, consult your doctor to avoid interactions with medications, such as anticoagulants.
Personalizing the recipe: Additions and variations
Hemp chocolate is a canvas for your creativity. You can experiment with different flavors and textures to create a unique treat. Add chopped hazelnuts, almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch. Dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins or orange peel will introduce a sweet and sour contrast. If you like intense flavors, try a pinch of chili, cinnamon or cardamom. For lovers of sophisticated desserts, we recommend sea salt or caramelized coconut flakes.
You can also create layers, such as combining dark chocolate with white chocolate or adding fruit mousse as a filling. It is important that the additives are finely chopped and evenly distributed so as not to disturb the texture. Experiment with proportions, but be sure not to overdo the amount of cannabinoids to maintain a balance of flavor and action.
What is hemp chocolate?
Hemp chocolate is a dessert containing cannabinoids, such as CBD or THC, prepared by adding CBD oil, hemp butter or extract to the chocolate mixture. It can have a relaxing or therapeutic effect.
Is hemp chocolate legal in Poland?
Yes, if it contains less than 0.2% THC and is derived from seed hemp. Products with CBD are legal, but THC in higher concentrations is illegal. Always check product certifications.
How long does hemp chocolate last?
The effects of edibles, such as hemp chocolate, appear after 30-120 minutes and can last 4-8 hours, depending on the dose and metabolism.
How do you calculate the dose of CBD in chocolate?
Check the concentration of CBD oil (e.g., 1 drop of 5% oil = 2.5 mg CBD) or estimate the cannabinoid content of hemp butter (1 g of dried 10% = about 100 mg). Divide the mass into portions so that each has 5-10 mg of CBD.
Can I use dried hemp without decarboxylation?
No, decarboxylation is necessary to activate cannabinoids. The raw dry contains THCA or CBDA, which have limited effects.
What additives go well with hemp chocolate?
Nuts, dried fruits, sea salt, spices (e.g., cinnamon, chili) or vanilla are popular additions that enhance flavor and texture.
How to store hemp chocolate?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator (4-8°C) for 2-3 weeks or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Avoid light, moisture and high temperatures.
Is hemp chocolate safe?
Yes, if you use legal ingredients and follow the dosage. Start with 5-10 mg of CBD per serving and avoid combining with alcohol. Consult your doctor if you are taking medication.
Can I make hemp chocolate without fat?
Fat (e.g. coconut oil) is needed for absorption of cannabinoids. Without it, chocolate may be less effective.
How to avoid the bitter taste of hemp in chocolate?
Use high quality CBD oil or thoroughly strained hemp butter. Add sweeteners, vanilla or intense additives to balance the flavor.
Hemp chocolate is a great way to combine pleasure with the potential benefits of cannabinoids. Preparing it at home gives you full control over the taste, dosage and quality of the ingredients, and the process is simple and rewarding. The key to success is proper decarboxylation, precise dosing and a creative approach to additives. Be sure to follow safety rules and local regulations to enjoy your treat without worry. Try our recipe, experiment with variations and discover how delicious hemp chocolate can be!
