How to Make CBD Brownies from Scratch
Updated: Apr. 21, 2021
These bite-size CBD brownies are a rich, fudgy way to incorporate CBD into your diet.
If the idea of making CBD edibles seems overwhelming, this recipe will definitely change your mind. These bite-size, fudgy CBD brownies are ready to eat in less than 45 minutes, and they feature perfectly balanced flavors that mask the herbaceous characteristics of cannabutter.
Don’t worry if you end up with more brownies than you can eat, either. You can store these bite-size treats in the freezer and take them out as needed. Just thaw for a few hours in the fridge—or enjoy frozen!
Editor’s Note:Â CBD isn’t legal in every state. Be sure you know local laws before making your own CBD brownies.
Oil vs. Cannabutter for CBD Brownies
In general, using oil creates fudgy brownies while butter makes cakey brownies. Either way works for this CBD brownie recipe because we use cannabutter that can be made with either butter or coconut oil for dairy-free brownies. Cannabutter is more economical than store-bought CBD oil, and it can be stored in the freezer until you’re ready to use it.
If you don’t want to learn how to make cannabutter, feel free to use your favorite CBD oil instead. Simply whisk the oil into the recipe alongside the vanilla extract. Our recipe makes 36 bite-size brownies, so add the appropriate number of drops to reach your desired dosage.
Tools You’ll Need
When it comes to baking, we always recommend using a kitchen scale to weigh the dry ingredients. We’ve also offered measurements in tablespoons and cups below, but using a scale is the best way to ensure the brownies will turn out with the perfect consistency.
It’s best not to microwave the cannabutter, so we recommend using a double boiler to melt the butter or oil with the sugar and cocoa powder in the second step. A heat-proof bowl set over a medium saucepan with simmering water does the trick nicely.
Finally, you’ll also need an 8×8 square baking pan and some parchment paper to make it easier to release the brownies. You can use regular parchment paper or invest in square sheets if you plan to bake brownies on the regular.
CBD Brownies Recipe
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Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons (140g) CBD-rich cannabutter made with butter or coconut oil
- 1-1/4 cups (250g) granulated sugar
- 3/4 cups (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-processed)
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, cold
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup (75g) walnut or pecan pieces, toasted (optional)
Yield: 36 bite-size servings
Directions
Step 1: Prepare a baking pan
Preheat the oven to 325°F. To make the brownies easier to remove from the pan, line the bottom and sides of an 8×8 square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Editor’s Tip: The easiest way to make the parchment fit is to cut two sheets of parchment the width of the baking pan. Place one sheet in the baking pan, creasing the corners to help it stay in place. Add a second sheet perpendicular to the first one so all four sides of the pan are covered.
Step 2: Melt the butter
Make the base of these CBD brownies by placing the cannabutter, sugar, cocoa powder and salt in a medium heatproof bowl. If you’re using CBD oil instead of cannabutter, swap in regular butter or vegetable oil for this step. Set the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water and cook, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted. Continue cooking until the mixture is smooth and hot to the touch.
Remove the bowl from the heat and let cool until the mixture is just warm. Don’t worry if it has a slightly gritty texture; it will smooth out again when you make the brownie batter.
Step 3: Mix the batter
If you’re using CBD oil, add the appropriate number of drops to the warm butter mixture and stir to combine. Add the vanilla and the eggs, one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Finish by adding the flour and beating the batter vigorously for 40 strokes until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Fold in the nuts (if using).
Step 4: Bake
Transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top to create an even layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center is slightly moist with batter. To ensure the brownies are finished, look for other visual signs: The center should be firm and shouldn’t wiggle when you shake the pan, and there should be some signs of cracking on the top.
Let the brownies cool completely in the baking pan set on a rack.
Step 5: Cut the brownies
When the brownies are completely cooled, remove them from the pan by lifting up on two sides of the parchment. Place the brownies on a large plate or baking sheet and freeze them for 30 minutes, until firm.
Using a sharp knife, cut the brownies into 36 bite-size pieces.
How to Store CBD Brownies
Wrap each brownie in waxed paper or foil and store in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
The cannabinoids in CBD brownies are most stable when stored in a cool, dark place. Store the brownies in the fridge for up to two weeks. For extended use, freeze the brownies for up to six months.
How Long Do CBD Brownies Last?
CBD brownies are good for up to two weeks in the fridge, or as long as six months in the freezer.
Can You Add Mix-Ins to CBD Brownies?
Any additions you might add to regular brownies will taste great in CBD brownies! Add chopped nuts, nut butter, fruit or jam, caramel, butterscotch, chopped-up cookies, pretzels or chocolate chips to give your CBD brownies extra flair. Don’t be afraid to frost them with fudge or peanut butter frosting, either, to create a decadent treat.
Try these other ways to cook with CBD oil.
Originally Published: April 21, 2021
