Weed cakes: everything you need to know

Have you ever thought about improving your baking skills with a touch of cannabis? While brownies or cookies can be the perfect example of edibles with marijuana, there is another baked product that has been in vogue for many years: weed cake, also known as “space cake.” This type of food not only offers a prolonged psychoactive experience, but also stands out for its discretion and ease of consumption. So… Let’s get cooking!

In essence (of vanilla), a “space cake” is a marijuana cake, infused with cannabis containing THC, the plant’s main psychoactive compound. It is a term that originated in the Netherlands, especially in Amsterdam, whose coffee shops have been offering these edible products on their menus for eons. The word “space” refers to the psychoactive effects experienced after their consumption, which can induce a feeling of floating in space due to alterations of perception.

In addition to their psychoactive effects, weed cakes also offer consumers a culinary treat of the highest order. They can be prepared in a wide variety of flavors, and with different ingredients, from chocolate brownies, to fruit muffins, to birthday cakes with all kinds of fillings, toppings and seasonings. This makes them not only a means to an end, but also a real delight for the palate.

Are edibles legal in the United States?

The legality of cannabis edibles, such as weed cakes, varies depending on the state you’re in. At the federal level, much to our continued dismay, cannabis remains on Schedule I as a controlled substance, which means that it is not legal throughout the country. However, many states have passed laws that allow recreational and/or medicinal use of cannabis, including the sale and consumption of edibles.

In California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington, for example, edibles are completely legal as long as they are purchased from licensed dispensaries. In contrast, in states like Texas and South Carolina, cannabis remains illegal in all its forms and flavors. 

What are the effects of weed cakes?

Weed cakes are known to deliver a unique experience compared to other methods of cannabis consumption, such as smoking or vaping. This is due to the way cannabis is processed by the body when ingested.

When consuming a weed cake, THC does not pass directly into the bloodstream and quickly reach the brain. Rather, it must pass through the stomach, and is then metabolized in the liver, becoming 11-hydroxy-THC, a metabolite that is more potent and produces more intense and prolonged effects than THC when inhaled. This form of THC can cross the blood-brain barrier more easily, which explains why the effects of edibles can be stronger and last longer.

The time it takes for weed cakes to take effect can vary from person to person, but, in general, the effects can begin to be felt 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. This time difference is due to factors such as individual metabolism, the amount of food in one’s stomach, cannabis tolerance, and the dose consumed. 

Once the effects begin, they can last 4 to 8 hours, or even longer in some users, which is considerably longer than the effects of smoking or vaping cannabis, which usually last 1 to 3 hours. This is why it is important to be patient and not consume more cake if you do not feel the effect immediately, as it is easy to eat too much and end up feeling effects more intense than those desired.

The safe consumption of weed cakes

Although weed cakes are a safe way to consume cannabis, there are some precautions to be mindful of. Above all, it is crucial to start with a low dose, especially for beginners, as a small portion of cake can pack a potent dose of THC, so it is recommended to wait at least 2 hours before considering a second portion. 

Safe storage is also necessary; that is, keeping weed cakes out of reach of children, pets, or people with a sweet tooth who do not consume cannabis but who might inadvertently consume them, as they can resemble normal cakes, both visually and in terms of their flavor. 

In addition, their effects can be intense, so it is important to be in a place where you feel calm and without any immediate obligations. Above all, avoid combining the consumption of weed cakes with alcohol or other substances, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.

What is the best strain of marijuana for weed cakes?

The choice of marijuana as the main ingredient for a cake will depend on the experience one is after. In general, high THC strains are preferred by those looking for a strong psychoactive effect, while high CBD strains are ideal for those looking for a milder, more relaxing effect, without the euphoric high. Here are some recommendations.

• Sativas: Varieties like Colombian Jack and Sativa Dream are known for their energizing and creative effects. They are ideal for cakes if a stimulating effect is sought.
• Indicas: genetics like Purple Kush and Dream Sherbet tend to be more relaxing and sedative. They are perfect for a weed cake that is consumed at the end of the day or before bedtime.
• Hybrid: Hybrid varieties like Moby Dick and Runtz Auto offer a mix of both sativa and indica effects, providing a balance between relaxation and euphoria.

Classic weed cake recipe

Making a weed cake is not much different than making a regular one. The key difference lies in the careful infusion of the cannabis. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cannabis butter (pre-prepared)
• 2 cups of sugar
• 3 cups of confectionery flour
• 4 eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons of baking yeast
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Decarboxylate your cannabis: preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C), distribute the cannabis on a baking sheet, in a single layer, and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, moving it occasionally.
   
2. Make cannabis butter: just follow the steps in this article.
   
3. Cake preparation:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, beat the cannabis butter with the sugar until obtaining a creamy mixture.
• Add the eggs, one by one, beating well after adding each one.
• Sift the flour with the yeast and salt. Add this mixture gradually to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk.
• Incorporate the vanilla extract.
• Pour the dough into a greased cake pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean.
• Allow to cool before unmolding and serving.

Enhance your gastronomic experience with a delicious twist

Whether you’re an experienced cannabis enthusiast or a curious beginner, creating your own weed cake offers you a chance to combine creativity with potency, ensuring that each serving suits your taste and fits your preference. While the appeal of these cakes is undeniable, moderation is critical. So, savor every bite, be aware of your limits, and enjoy a cannabis experience as delicious as it is memorable.