Last updated: June 2026
CBD butter is the foundation of countless CBD-infused recipes — from brownies and cakes to savoury dishes. Infusing CBD oil with fat ensures optimal absorption, consistent dosing and delicious results. Here’s everything you need to know.
What is CBD butter?
CBD butter is a simple infusion of CBD oil, butter and water — cooled into a spreadable base. Unlike cannabutter (which contains THC), CBD butter uses THC-free broad-spectrum CBD oil for all the potential wellness benefits without any psychoactive effect. It’s the most versatile foundation for CBD cooking and baking.
Why CBD needs to be infused with fat
CBD is lipid-soluble — it binds naturally to fats. Infusing it with butter, coconut oil or nut butter serves two important purposes:
- Protects cannabinoids during heating — gentle heat activates CBD, but excessive heat destroys it. Fat helps stabilise CBD in recipes up to around 160–170°C.
- Improves absorption — the body absorbs CBD more efficiently when consumed with dietary fat, increasing bioavailability.
How to make CBD butter
Ingredients
- 2 cups grass-fed unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 20 ml organic broad-spectrum CBD oil
Method
- Chop butter into cubes.
- Add butter, water and CBD oil to a small heavy-bottomed pan.
- Simmer gently for around 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Never boil — excessive heat degrades CBD.
- Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate until solid. Your CBD butter is ready.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for longer.
CBD-infused nut butter recipe
For a sweeter alternative — perfect for toast, baking or adding to smoothies.
Ingredients
- 450 g nut butter (peanut, almond or cashew)
- 30 ml full-spectrum CBD oil
- A dash of olive oil
Method
- Lightly coat a saucepan with olive oil.
- Add nut butter and CBD oil.
- Warm gently over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Cool while stirring occasionally.
- Transfer to a jar and refrigerate.
Ways to use CBD butter
CBD brownies
A timeless favourite — use CBD butter in homemade or boxed brownie mix. Read more: CBD brownie recipes
CBD cakes
Any cake recipe calling for butter can be upgraded with CBD butter. Read more: 4 best CBD cake recipes
CBD tea or coffee
Add a small spoonful of unsalted CBD butter or CBD coconut oil to your morning brew. Healthy fats aid absorption and provide slow-release energy. Read more: How to make CBD coffee
Savoury cooking
Use in pasta, sauces or as a finishing butter for vegetables and meats. Use low-to-medium heat to preserve potency.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use salted butter to make CBD butter?
Yes — but unsalted is usually preferred for better flavour control, especially in sweet recipes.
Can I make vegan CBD butter?
Yes — substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter. Follow the same low-heat infusion process.
How strong will my CBD butter be?
Depends on your CBD oil concentration. Using 20 ml of 1,000 mg CBD oil yields approximately 20 mg CBD per tablespoon (assuming even distribution across the batch).
Can I bake with CBD butter?
Yes — CBD tolerates gentle baking temperatures up to around 160–170°C. Avoid direct high heat to preserve potency.
How long does CBD butter last?
Up to 2 weeks in the fridge, or several months frozen. Use a clean utensil each time to avoid contamination.
Final thoughts on CBD butter
CBD butter is one of the simplest and most versatile ways to incorporate CBD into your daily routine — especially if you find plain oil less enjoyable. Use gentle heat, choose a quality organic broad-spectrum CBD oil, and start with a smaller amount to establish your ideal dose per serving.
