Sauces & Condiments
This hemp butter recipe transforms simple hemp seeds into a rich, earthy spread that elevates everything from toast to pasta. The process is straightforward—no special equipment needed—just hemp seeds, oil, and a few pantry staples blended into a smooth, flavorful paste.
I developed this version after testing multiple methods, and it consistently delivers a creamy texture with balanced cannabis notes that work in both sweet and savory dishes.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option or olive oil for a more neutral base, depending on your flavor preferences.
A touch of garlic and salt enhances the earthy hemp flavor, while fresh herbs like parsley or basil add brightness. The result is a spread that’s rich, nutty, and subtly herbal—perfect for topping avocado toast, stirring into sauces, or even mixing into smoothies for an extra nutritional boost.
What makes this hemp butter truly special is how it transforms ordinary meals into something extraordinary. A simple drizzle over roasted vegetables or a spoonful stirred into marinara sauce adds depth without overpowering. The texture is velvety yet sturdy, holding its shape when spread but melting smoothly when heated.
Best of all, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making it a convenient pantry staple for quick cooking.
For those new to cannabis-infused cooking, this recipe is an excellent starting point—it’s mild enough for beginners but flavorful enough to satisfy experienced users. Pair it with breakfast staples like pancakes or waffles, or use it as a base for homemade veggie burgers.
The possibilities are endless, and the process is foolproof. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for hemp butter
Eight simple ingredients blend into a versatile, earthy spread perfect for cooking and topping.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hemp Seeds 🌱 | 1 cup | Raw, unshelled, organic preferred |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | ½ cup | High quality, fruity flavor |
| Coconut Oil 🥥 | ¼ cup | Unrefined for flavor, solid at room temp |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 2 cloves | Fresh, peeled, for depth |
| Sea Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Fine grain, enhances flavor |
| Fresh Parsley Leaves 🌿 | ¼ cup | Packed, for brightness |
| Lemon Juice 🍋 | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed, for acidity |
| Decarboxylated Cannabis Bud 🌿 | ½ oz | Grinder-quality, properly cured |
The hemp seeds are the foundation—organic, raw seeds from Nutiva or Manitobah deliver the best flavor and nutrition. If you can't find organic, regular hemp seeds work fine, but avoid pre-roasted varieties. The cannabis should be properly decarboxylated—either bake it at 240°F for 40 minutes or use a decarboxylation machine. Costco or local dispensaries often carry pre-ground cannabis, but grinding your own ensures better consistency. For the oil, extra-virgin olive oil adds a fruity note, while unrefined coconut oil contributes creaminess and a slight tropical flavor.
No hemp seeds? Ground flaxseeds or tahini can mimic the nutty texture, though the flavor won't be identical. Short on coconut oil? Avocado oil works well for a neutral base. The garlic and lemon juice are non-negotiable—they cut through the earthiness and brighten the spread. If you dislike garlic, asafetida powder at half the amount adds depth without the pungency. For the cannabis, indica strains tend to be earthier and work better for cooking, while sativas add a more uplifting note. Always measure your cannabis carefully—0.5 oz is a solid starting point for beginners.
Store the hemp butter in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze it in 1-tbsp portions—thaw at room temperature or in the fridge. The texture will soften slightly when reheated, making it perfect for drizzling over hot dishes. If the spread separates, simply stir or blend it back together. This keeps well for 3 months frozen, though the flavor may mellow slightly over time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Here’s what sold me: I use every last bit. The hemp seeds stay fresh for weeks in the fridge, and the butter keeps for months if stored right. Plus, garlic and salt are already in my spice drawer, so this is basically free money in spread form. Budget-friendly? Absolutely. Smart? Even more so.
- Five-Ingredient Magic: I swear, this is the kind of recipe where you’ll stare at your pantry and think, "I already have all this?" Toasted hemp seeds meet warm olive oil and coconut oil—no fancy equipment, just a food processor and 10 minutes of your time. Honestly, it’s the kind of simplicity that makes me want to make it twice in one week.
- Garlic Butter Bliss: That first bite of toasted garlic cloves blended into rich, nutty hemp butter? It’s like someone took all the good parts of garlic bread and turned it into a spreadable dream. The coconut oil keeps it creamy, while the olive oil adds depth—smooth, savory, and impossible to resist.
- Spread It Everywhere: Between us, this stuff disappears fast. Slather it on toast for breakfast, mix it into pasta for dinner, or drizzle it over roasted veggies—it’s my go-to for adding protein and flavor without extra effort. (Yes, even on a Tuesday night when you’re too tired to think.)
Step-by-step instructions for hemp butter recipe
Here's the precise method to create a rich, earthy hemp butter infused with cannabis flavor for cooking.
Prepare the Base Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the 1 cup hemp seeds with the 0.5 oz decarboxylated cannabis bud. Use your fingers to gently break up the cannabis bud into small pieces, ensuring even distribution throughout the hemp seeds. This step is critical for achieving a consistent cannabis-infused flavor in the final product.
In a separate medium saucepan, melt the 0.25 cup coconut oil over low heat until fully liquid. The coconut oil should be smooth and clear, with no visible solid pieces. Remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly for 2-3 minutes—this prevents overheating when you add the hot oil to the other ingredients later.
Toast the Aromatics
Heat the 0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Add the 2 cloves garlic cloves, sliced into thin pieces, and toast for 1-2 minutes until they turn light golden brown and release a fragrant aroma. Be careful not to let them burn—they should smell sweet and nutty, not bitter.
Immediately transfer the garlic and olive oil to a heatproof bowl and set aside. Add the 0.25 cup fresh parsley leaves to the same skillet and stir for 30 seconds until the parsley wilts slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool for 1 minute before adding it to the bowl with the garlic oil.
Combine and Infuse
Add the hemp seed and cannabis mixture to the saucepan with the melted coconut oil. Stir well to coat the seeds evenly. Return the saucepan to low heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the hemp seeds turn a pale golden color and release a nutty aroma. This indicates they're lightly toasted and ready for blending.
Transfer the toasted hemp seed mixture to a high-speed blender or food processor. Add the garlic-infused olive oil, parsley, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Blend on high for 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, resembling a thick butter. If the mixture feels too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help it emulsify.
Season and Finish
Return the blended mixture to the saucepan and stir in the 0.5 tsp sea salt. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. You want it to coat the back of a spoon smoothly—this ensures it will spread easily on toast, stir into sauces, or melt into baked goods.
Remove from heat and let the hemp butter cool for 5 minutes before transferring it to a clean, airtight jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 3 months. The butter should have a rich, earthy cannabis flavor with bright, herbal notes from the parsley and a subtle tang from the lemon juice.
Pro Tips For Making Hemp Butter
- Toast Seeds First: I learned this the hard way—raw hemp seeds taste bitter when blended with garlic. Dry-toast them in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until they smell nutty (not burnt). This step makes the butter taste richer and less grassy.
- Use Cold Garlic: Chop your garlic cloves small but leave them in the freezer for 10 minutes first. Cold garlic blends smoother and doesn’t turn the butter into a paste—just a few tiny flecks of flavor. (Yes, even if you’re impatient like me.)
- Melt Oils Slowly: Combine olive oil and coconut oil in a saucepan and warm them together over the lowest heat setting. If you rush it, the coconut oil will seize up and turn grainy—no one wants lumpy hemp butter. Keep it under 100°F (38°C) if possible.
- Blend in Stages: Start with half the hemp seeds and pulse until smooth, then add the rest gradually. This prevents the motor from overheating and ensures the texture stays creamy—not chalky. (I skipped this once and regretted it immediately.)
Storing and reheating your leftovers
Refrigerator Storage
Store your hemp butter in an airtight glass jar—I recommend Le Parfait 16-ounce jars—to preserve freshness and prevent oxidation. Keep it in the refrigerator at 40°F or below for up to 2 weeks.
The coconut oil will solidify slightly, giving it a firm but spreadable texture. If the top forms a thin oil layer, simply stir before using. 🌱
Freezer Preservation
For longer storage, portion the hemp butter into 1-tablespoon servings using silicone ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months—this works perfectly for single-use portions.
Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before using. The texture will soften slightly but remain stable for spreading or cooking. ❄️
Reheating for Cooking
If using the hemp butter in hot dishes like sauces or marinades, warm it gently in a small saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Avoid high heat—this can cause separation or burn the delicate cannabis notes.
For cold applications like toast toppings, use it straight from the fridge for the best texture. 🔥
Reviving Separated Butter
If your hemp butter separates after storage, don’t toss it! Place the jar in a bowl of warm water (not hot) for 5-10 minutes to gently melt the solidified oils.
Stir vigorously or blend briefly with a hand mixer to re-emulsify. This trick works wonders for restoring that creamy, spreadable consistency. 💫
Labeling and Safety
Always label your hemp butter with the date made and cannabis content (e.g., "0.5 oz cannabis per batch") to track potency and freshness. Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources, like the fridge door.
If you’re sharing with others, include a note about THC content—this is especially important for households with kids or pets. 📝
Flavor Evolution Over Time
The cannabis flavor in hemp butter mellows slightly over time, especially after 4-6 weeks in the fridge. For the freshest taste, use it within 2 weeks. If stored properly, the earthy hemp and herbal notes remain vibrant, while the lemon and garlic brighten the profile.
Freezing extends shelf life but may slightly dull the flavor—best for practicality over peak freshness. 💡
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this hemp butter without cannabis?
Simply omit the 0.5 oz decarboxylated cannabis bud and increase the olive oil by 1 tablespoon to maintain consistency. The result will be a rich, nutty spread perfect for vegan baking or as a protein boost in smoothies. The earthy hemp flavor still shines through without any cannabis notes.
How do I know if my cannabis is properly decarboxylated?
Decarboxylation is complete when the cannabis changes color from dark green to a lighter, golden brown. To test, grind a small amount and heat it in a dry pan for 5-10 minutes—if it smells aromatic and earthy (not raw or grassy), it's ready. For precision, use a decarboxylation machine or bake at 240°F for 40 minutes.
What's the best way to use this hemp butter in cooking?
This versatile spread works beautifully as a toast topping, pasta sauce base, or vegan butter substitute in baking. For extra flavor, mix it into marinades for grilled meats or stir it into soups. The mild cannabis notes complement both sweet (like pancakes) and savory dishes (like roasted veggies).
Why did my hemp butter separate after refrigerating?
Separation happens when oils and fats cool at different rates. To fix it, place the jar in a bowl of warm water for 5-10 minutes to gently melt the solidified oils. Stir vigorously or blend briefly—this re-emulsifies the mixture. For prevention, store it in an airtight container and avoid temperature fluctuations.
Can I substitute tahini for hemp seeds?
Yes, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Use ½ cup tahini instead of hemp seeds and reduce the olive oil by 2 tablespoons to maintain balance. Tahini adds a stronger sesame flavor, so pair it with complementary herbs like dill or cilantro. The cannabis infusion will still work, but the nutty profile will be more tahini-forward.