Making your own CBD gummies allows you to enjoy a classic CBD edible with a personal touch. These chewy treats were among the first CBD options available and quickly gained popularity. Their appeal is no surprise—gummies offer a delicious way to consume full or broad-spectrum CBD without the “hempy” taste of CBD oils.
With CBD oil gummies now widely available online, making them at home can be a rewarding project. If you’re new to making gummies, the process might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple—sometimes easier than making plain homemade CBD oil. Follow this guide to create your own CBD gummies without needing a stove.
Benefits of Homemade CBD Gummies
Why make CBD gummies at home? Beyond potential health benefits, homemade gummies offer a unique format that’s easy to enjoy. Here’s why they make the perfect DIY project:
- Delicious: CBD gummies come in various flavors, allowing you to enjoy full or broad-spectrum benefits without the “hempy” taste of CBD oil. Infuse them with your favorite flavors for a tasty treat.
- Adaptable: Dietary needs vary, and traditional gummies use gelatin, which isn’t vegan. Fortunately, you can make vegan CBD gummies using pectin instead. You can also add other ingredients, like vitamin C powder or fruit juice, to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Precise Dosing: Proper dosing is crucial. Gummies offer precise dosing with clear labeling, allowing consistent amounts per piece, unlike some other methods.
Can You Use CBD Tincture for Gummies?
Yes, CBD gummies can be made with CBD tincture or CBD oil. While it’s possible to make your own CBD extract, using a reputable CBD tincture ensures you know the exact dosage. Distribute each batch carefully based on your tincture’s strength.
How to Calculate Dosage per Gummy
To determine the dosage in each gummy:
- Establish Target Dosage: Decide how much CBD you want per serving.
- Measure CBD Oil: If your recipe uses 5 ml of CBD oil with a concentration of 750 mg per 30 ml bottle, each ml contains 25 mg of CBD.
- Calculate Total CBD: Multiply the concentration by the amount used (5 ml × 25 mg/ml = 125 mg total).
- Determine Dosage per Gummy: Divide the total CBD by the number of gummies. For example, if you make 10 gummies, each will contain 12.5 mg of CBD.
What You’ll Need:
- Microwave
- Baking sheet
- Silicone gummy molds
- Measuring cup
- Cooking spray
- 1/2 cup (125 ml) fruit juice (lemon, cranberry, mixed fruit) or sports drink
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) corn syrup
- 2 packs (1 oz each) unflavored gelatin (or pectin for vegan gummies)
- 5 ml full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD oil
How to Make CBD Gummies: Step-by-Step
- Prepare Molds: Lightly grease silicone molds with cooking spray and place them on a baking sheet.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine juice, gelatin, and corn syrup in a measuring cup. Stir until the gelatin is mostly dissolved, then let it sit for 60 seconds.
- Heat Mixture: Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds, stir, and repeat until gelatin is fully dissolved. Let it cool for 15 minutes to thicken. Do not stir during this time.
- Add CBD Oil: Once thickened, stir in CBD oil.
- Pour Mixture: Fill each mold with the gummy mixture.
- Chill: Refrigerate the molds for 30-45 minutes until gummies are firm.
- Remove Gummies: Carefully pop gummies out of the molds.
How to Store Homemade CBD Gummies
Proper storage is key to preserving your gummies’ shelf life. Keep them in an airtight container away from heat and light. Store in the fridge, freezer, or a dark cabinet.
Shelf Life and Effects
CBD gummies typically last 3-6 months if stored correctly. Edibles may take 30 minutes to three hours to start working, with effects lasting up to eight hours, depending on dosage and potency.
Using Jell-O for CBD Gummies
Yes, you can use Jell-O instead of fruit juice and gelatin for a simplified recipe. Jell-O comes pre-flavored, but it’s less customizable and contains refined sugars.
Using CBD Flower
You can’t make gummies directly with CBD flower, but you can use it to create CBD oil for your gummies. This process involves extra steps, including decarboxylation to activate cannabinoids.
Decarboxylation
Decarboxylation involves heating plant material to convert CBDA into active CBD. This step is essential for effective gummies.
Potential Side Effects
While rare, possible side effects include lethargy, headaches, nausea, dry mouth, diarrhea, and mood changes. If side effects persist, consult a doctor.
Ensuring Safety
The safety of your gummies depends on the quality of your CBD oil. Choose pure, high-quality oil from reputable sources that provide third-party testing results.
Final Tips
- Use citric acid-rich juices (like lemon or cranberry) for better shelf life.
- Purchase CBD oil from trusted brands for accurate dosing.
- Add sugar coating for extra flavor but be mindful of nutritional value.
- Try unique flavors like maple syrup for a personal touch.
Enjoy your homemade CBD gummies and experiment with different flavors and shapes.