Infusing already made gummies with THC or CBD is absolutely possible, but does require a few extra steps compared to making infused gummies from scratch. The key things to know are:
Quick Answers
Can you infuse store-bought gummies with THC or CBD oil? Yes, it is possible to infuse store-bought or already made gummies with THC or CBD oil through a process called liquid dosing.
What is the best way to infuse already made gummies? The best method is liquid dosing – this involves making a tincture with the THC/CBD oil and an emulsifier like sunflower lecithin. The tincture is then used to coat the exterior of the gummies.
How long does it take to infuse gummies? Infusing already made gummies takes just a few minutes using liquid dosing. The gummies should sit for 24 hours after coating to fully absorb the tincture.
Is it better to make infused gummies from scratch? Making infused gummies from scratch gives you more control over the dosage and distribution of THC/CBD. But infusing store-bought gummies is quicker and easier.
Can You Infuse Already Made Gummies?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to infuse already made gummies with THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids. This process is commonly referred to as “liquid dosing” or “liquid infusing”.
Liquid dosing involves making a concentrated tincture with your cannabis oil or extract and using it to coat the exterior of the gummies. When the gummies are coated with the tincture, the THC/CBD is absorbed through the surface and infuses throughout the gummy over time.
The benefit of infusing pre-made store-bought gummies is that it saves a lot of time and effort compared to making homemade cannabis gummies from scratch. You skip the cooking process and go straight to infusing.
However, one downside is that you have less control over the dosage and distribution of THC/CBD when liquid dosing already made gummies. The cannabinoids can potentially be unevenly distributed, whereas homemade gummies have the oil mixed directly into the mixture.
Is it Better to Make Infused Gummies from Scratch?
Making infused gummies from scratch does give you more precision and control over the dosage. When you make the gummies yourself and mix the cannabis oil directly into the gummy mixture, you can ensure the THC/CBD is evenly distributed throughout each gummy.
You can also customize the flavors and shapes when making homemade cannabis gummies. It takes more time and effort, but does provide a more controlled result.
Infusing store-bought gummies is quicker, easier, and can still be effective. So it comes down to your specific needs and preferences as to whether you want to invest the time into making them from scratch vs. liquid dosing.
What is the Best Method for Infusing Already Made Gummies?
The best and most effective method for infusing already made gummies is through liquid dosing, also known as liquid infusing.
Here is an overview of how to do it:
- Make a concentrated cannabis tincture using your oil/extract of choice combined with an emulsifier like sunflower lecithin and a high proof alcohol like everclear.
- Coat the exterior of the gummies by either dipping them into the tincture or using a dropper to distribute it evenly.
- Allow gummies to sit for 24-48 hours to give time for the tincture to fully absorb.
- The gummies are now infused and ready to enjoy!
The key things that make liquid dosing effective are using an emulsifier like lecithin in your tincture, and allowing enough time for absorption. The lecithin helps the THC/CBD distribute evenly and absorb into the gummies.
This method is faster and more reliable than alternatives like spraying distillate or dry sifting powders onto gummies. The concentrated tincture fully coats and soaks into the gummies.
How to Make Cannabis Tincture for Gummies
Making your own cannabis tincture is simple and essential for liquid dosing gummies. Here is a sample recipe and method:
Ingredients:
- 1 oz cannabis oil or extract
- 1 cup high proof alcohol (everclear or 151 rum recommended)
- 1 tbsp sunflower lecithin
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a glass jar. Shake vigorously for 2-3 minutes.
- Store jar in cool dark place and shake for 5 minutes a few times per day.
- After 3-5 days, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth.
- Tincture is now ready to use for infusing gummies!
This will produce a concentrated tincture that can effectively coat and infuse a large batch of gummies.
Step-by-Step Guide to Infusing Gummies
Follow these simple steps to easily infuse store-bought or already made gummies using liquid dosing:
- Make cannabis tincture – The tincture will contain the THC/CBD and allow it to adhere to the gummies.
- Spread gummies onto tray – Arrange your gummies in a single layer on a baking tray or large plate.
- Coat gummies with tincture – Use a dropper to distribute the tincture evenly over the gummies until coated.
- Allow to absorb for 24-48 hours – Place the coated gummies into an airtight container and store for at least 24 hours.
- Enjoy! – After allowing time to absorb, the gummies are infused and ready to enjoy.
It’s that simple! The key is taking the time to make a quality cannabis tincture and allowing enough absorption time. With the right technique, you can successfully infuse any type of pre-made gummy.
How Long Does it Take to Infuse Gummies?
In total, the process of infusing already made gummies takes around 24-48 hours from start to finish. Here is a breakdown:
- Making the tincture – 3-5 days
- Coating the gummies – 5-10 minutes
- Infusion time – 24-48 hours minimum
So the actual process of liquid dosing the gummies only takes about 5-10 minutes once you have the tincture ready. But its crucial to let the gummies sit for a full 24 hours at minimum after coating to give time for the tincture to fully absorb and infuse.
Proper infusion time is vital for an evenly distributed dose. Don’t skip this step!
Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips when infusing gummies for best results:
- Use lecithin in your tincture – It acts as an emulsifier for even THC/CBD distribution
- Go light on the coating – You can always add more tincture, but you can’t take it away
- Give 48 hours absorption time – This allows the most complete infusion
- Store in an airtight container – Prevents drying out
- Consider making a test batch – Dial in the dosing before making a large batch
Common Questions
Can you use distillate to infuse gummies?
Yes, cannabis distillate can be used to make a tincture for infusing gummies. However, distillate on its own does not work as well for coating gummies compared to a lecithin-infused tincture.
Do you have to use lecithin for liquid dosing?
Lecithin is not absolutely mandatory, but highly recommended. It helps evenly distribute the THC/CBD and enhances absorption.
How long do infused gummies last?
Properly stored cannabis gummies can last up to 6 months. Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and how to avoid them when infusing gummies:
Uneven Dosing
Issue: THC/CBD is unevenly distributed in gummies
Solution: Use lecithin in tincture, allow adequate absorption time, coat gummies evenly
Recrystallization
Issue: Distillate re-solidifies on gummies
Solution: Mix distillate with alcohol and lecithin to create liquid tincture
Weak Dosage
Issue: Gummies have lower dose than expected
Solution: Make a more concentrated tincture, allow extra absorption time, double coat gummies
Melting Gummies
Issue: Gummies lose shape and melt together
Solution: Work quickly, spread gummies on tray before coating, refrigerate after coating
How Strong is the Dose?
The strength of the dose when infusing gummies depends on a few key factors:
- Potency of cannabis oil used
- Ratio of oil to tincture
- Amount of tincture applied to each gummy
- Amount of time allowed for absorption
Testing different oil ratios and application amounts will allow you to dial in your desired dosage. Give a longer absorption time of 48 hours for maximum infusion strength.
As a general guideline, aim for around 5-10mg THC per gummy. Record your procedures to replicate the dosing reliably.
How to Calculate Dosage
Here is a simple formula to calculate approximate THC/CBD dosage per gummy:
- Calculate total THC/CBD amount in your tincture batch
- Divide amount by number of gummies to get THC/CBD per gummy
- Adjust tincture used per gummy to achieve target dose
For example, if your tincture contains 1000mg total THC and you have 100 gummies, that equals ~10mg THC per gummy. You can then tweak the tincture amount applied to raise or lower the dose as desired.
Storing Cannabis Gummies
Properly stored cannabis gummies will maintain their potency and texture for many months. Follow these storage tips:
- Keep gummies in an airtight container
- Store in a cool, dark place around room temperature
- Avoid direct heat, light, and humidity
- Refrigeration can extend shelf life but may harden texture
- Freeze very long term batches for up to 6 months
With the right storage methods, infused gummies can retain optimal quality for at least 3-6 months. The fridge keeps them stable for even longer.
How to Spot Moldy Gummies
Check infused gummies periodically for any mold growth. Signs include:
- Visible fuzziness or white spots
- Soft texture
- Off smelling
Discard any gummies showing these signs of mold. Keeping your infused gummies in an airtight container in the fridge prevents mold growth.
Types of Gummies to Infuse
Almost any type of ready made gummy candy can be infused with cannabis tincture. Here are some of the most popular options:
Gelatin Gummies
Gelatin gummies like Haribo are soft, chewy, and easy to infuse. The gelatin makes them very absorbent.
Pectin Gummies
Pectin-based gummies hold their shape better but take a little longer to fully absorb the tincture compared to gelatin.
Gummy Bears
Iconic gummy bears are fun to turn into THC/CBD edibles! Their small size allows for precise dosing.
Sour Gummies
Tangy sour gummies nicely balance out the herbal flavors of cannabis when infused.
Fruit Snacks
Fruit snacks like Welch’s are naturally sweet and chewy when transformed into infused edibles.
Nearly any store-bought gummy can work. Test different textures and flavors to find your favorites to infuse.
Infusing vs. Making Gummies from Scratch
| Infusing Gummies | Making Gummies from Scratch |
|---|---|
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Both methods produce delicious infused gummies, so choose the option that best fits your time and skill level!
Final Takeaways
Infusing store-bought and already made gummies is an easy shortcut to edible cannabis treats. With the right techniques, you can give any type of gummy a dose of THC or CBD.
The key steps are:
- Create a cannabis oil tincture infused with lecithin
- Evenly coat the gummies with the tincture
- Allow adequate time for the gummies to absorb the tincture
Properly dosed and stored cannabis gummies can provide a potent, long-lasting edible experience. Both homemade and pre-made gummies work great, so find your favorite fruity flavors to infuse.
