Coffee is one of South Africa’s most beloved rituals. Whether it’s a moerkoffie brewed on the fire in the Karoo, or a perfectly pulled flat white from Truth in Cape Town, we love our daily dose of caffeine. But there’s a new trend on the rise that might pique your interest if you’re a dagga devotee: weed coffee.
If you’re looking for a new way to wake up and energize your morning, weed coffee could be the perfect addition to your routine.
This curious concoction blends two powerful plants – coffee and cannabis – into one potent cup. It promises a unique blend of stimulation and relaxation, alertness and ease. In this guide, we present how to make weed coffee at home, step by step. We'll take a look at the fascinating science behind this combination, and best of all, whether you’re using instant coffee, ground beans, or cold brew, we’ve got a recipe for weed coffee tailored for you.
A Brief History of Weed Coffee
While there’s limited hard evidence of cannabis and coffee being combined historically, some oral traditions and speculative theories suggest that in ancient Ethopia – the birthplace of coffee – tribes may have chewed wild coffee beans and local plants, possibly including cannabis, for energy and medicinal use. A speculative note appears in Cannabis: A History by Martin Booth, which hints at such ritualistic use but stops short of direct proof. So while the idea is intriguing, it’s best seen as folklore rather than documented fact.
What is certain is that both plants have long histories in Africa – coffee with its Ethiopian roots, and dagga, which has been cultivated and used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual practice in South Africa.
Why Mix Weed and Coffee?
Weed coffee offers more than novelty – it can be a genuinely enjoyable way to experience the synergistic effects of two very different substances. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, increasing alertness and heart rate, while THC and other cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system to induce relaxation, euphoria, or creativity.
When combined thoughtfully, the result can be a balanced high, effectively delivering energizing effects without feeling frantic, and a chilled vibe without being couch-locked. Many users report heightened focus, a smooth mental buzz, and even a boost in creativity. But not everyone reacts the same – and that’s why preparation matters.
Making Weed Coffee: What You'll Need
Before we get into the steps, here’s a basic shopping list. You don’t need fancy equipment, but good coffee and quality cannabis will make all the difference.
Ingredients
- 0.5 to 1 gram of decarboxylated cannabis
- 1 tablespoon of butter or coconut oil (for THC binding)
- 1 cup of coffee (instant, ground, beans, or cold brew)
- Milk or sugar (optional, if that’s how you like your coffee)
- A strainer or cheesecloth (if infusing manually)
Decarboxylation: The First Essential Step in Weed Coffee
You can’’t just toss some raw dagga into your plunger and call it a day. There’s a crucial chemical process that has to take place first: decarboxylation. Raw cannabis contains THCA, which is not psychoactive. To convert it into THC, you need to heat it – but gently.
To do this, grind your cannabis coarsely (not too fine or it burns easily), spread it on a baking tray, and bake it in a preheated oven at 110C to 115C for around 35 to 40 minutes. This baking process ‘activates’ the cannabinoids, making them ready to infuse into fat and then into your coffee.
Further Reading: Cannabis Knowhow - What Is Decarboxylation And Why Is It important?
Coffee Selection: Choosing the Perfect Brew for Infusion
When it comes to crafting the perfect blend of coffee and cannabis, your choice of coffee is just as important as the cannabis itself. For a truly delicious and balanced cup, opt for a medium to dark roast—these roasts help mellow out any earthy notes from the weed, creating a smooth, rich flavor that’s hard to beat. Arabica beans are a fantastic choice, known for their naturally sweet and nuanced taste, which pairs beautifully with the herbal undertones of cannabis.
Whether you prefer a classic plunger brew or a bold espresso shot, starting with high-quality coffee ensures your weed coffee delivers both energy and relaxation. Experiment with different beans and roast levels to create your own signature blend. The right coffee not only boosts the flavor but also enhances the overall experience, making every sip of your weed coffee a fantastic way to start your day or wind down in the afternoon.
Brewing Methods for Weed Coffee
There are several ways to make weed coffee, and your method might depend on your kitchen equipment, how hands-on you want to get, and the type of coffee you love. Here are the most effective methods, each tailored to different types of coffee drinkers.
Quick Weed Coffeee: Instant and Infused
If you’re in a rush, this weed coffee method is the easiest way to get your fix. After decarbing your dagga, you’ll need to infuse it into a fat source – typically unsalted butter or coconut oil. Simmer the cannabis in the butter/oil on a low heat (around 80-90°C) for about 30 to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming on the surface. Then strain out the plant matter using a fine sieve or cheesecloth, and let the infused butter cool.
Once you’ve made your weed butter, simply stir half a teaspoon into your instant coffee. Add milk and sugar to taste if that’s the way you like to do it, and voila – easy weed coffee. Effects typically kick in within 30 to 90 minutes, depending on your metabolism. Instant weed coffee is deal for a calm, focused morning. With instant weed coffee, you can savor the unique flavor and effects of cannabis with minimal effort, making it a great addition to your daily routine.
Connoisseur’s Weed Coffee – Ground Coffee and French Press
If you enjoy rich, freshly brewed coffee from a French press or ‘bodum’, you can integrate your cannabis more directly into the brew.
After decarbing, make your weed coffee by mixing 0.5 grams of cannabis with your regular ground coffee. Add this to your French press, pour in hot water just off the boil, and let it steep for four to five minutes. Optionally, add a small spoon of weed butter or coconut oil to the brew to help extract more cannabinoids. Plunge and pour, and enjoy your cup of rich, delicious weed coffee.
This method of weed coffee production creates a nuanced flavor profile and tends to deliver a gentle, longer-lasting high.
Cold Brew Weed Coffee
If you prefer a chilled experience, cold brew weed coffee is a smooth and refreshing option. Add your decarbed cannabis and coarsely ground coffee to a jar of cold water along with a spoon of coconut oil. Stir the mix, and let it sit in the fridge for 12 to 24 hours. Then strain thoroughly, and enjoy. Serve over ice with a splash of oat milk for a hipster finish. For an extra rich texture, you can add a splash of infused cream to your cold brew weed coffee.
The result is a low-acid, creamy, slightly nutty flavor with subtle psychoactive effects that build slowly over time, perfect for Cape Town summers or Jozi heatwaves!
CBD Options: Customizing Your Weed Coffee Experience
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy the benefits of the cannabis plant without the high, CBD infused coffee is a fantastic option. By adding CBD oil or CBD infused butter to your cup, you can create a beverage that offers therapeutic effects like stress relief, relaxation, and antioxidant support—without any psychoactive buzz. CBD is known for its ability to help the body manage stress and inflammation, making it a great addition to your morning or afternoon coffee ritual.
Customizing your weed coffee with CBD is easy: simply add a few drops of CBD oil or a small amount of CBD infused butter to your prepared coffee, stir, and enjoy. You can adjust the amount to suit your needs, whether you want a subtle sense of calm or a more pronounced effect. With CBD infused coffee, you get all the flavor and comfort of your regular cup, plus the added wellness benefits of CBD—perfect for staying productive, focused, and relaxed throughout the day. Weed coffee without the psychoactivity!
Choosing The Right Strain for Weed Coffee
Your experience with weed coffee will depend heavily on the cannabis strain you use, and your goals. In South Africa, we have access to some outstanding genetics – but Seedsman puts you in touch with the best strains from across the globe.
For a morning boost, go for sativa-dominant strains. Durban Poison, a proudly South African heirloom strain, offers energy, creativity, and daytime clarity.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine-induced anxiety, an indica like Blueberry might better balance the buzz, helping reduce jitteriness while keeping the mood light.
Balanced hybrids offer a bit of both.
Whatever strain you choose to make weed coffee, start with small doses – especially if mixing with caffeine for the first time. Around 0.3 to 0.5 grams per cup is plenty for most people.
The Science of Weed Coffee
Mixing caffeine and cannabis to make weed coffee isn’t as reckless as it sounds – in fact some studies suggest interesting reactions. According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, low doses of THC combined with caffeine enhanced memory.
However, high doses of either can be overstimulating, especially for those prone to anxiety. Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, which in turn keeps you alert, while THC can increase dopamine, leading to euphoria, but also amplify anxiety at high doses or in sensitive users. That’s why you only add a little weed to your weed coffee.
The key takeaway: balance matters. Always experiment responsibly, especially if you’re new to edibles (or drinkables). Careful dosing and preparation can help ensure a guaranteed enjoyable experience.
Is it Legal?
In South Africa, personal cannabis use is decriminalized (following the 2018 Constitutional Court ruling), but selling cannabis or cannabis edibles remains restricted. That means you can brew weed coffee at home, but don't try to sell it from your bakkie at the Saturday market!
Safety and Precautions: Enjoying Weed Coffee Responsibly
Enjoying weed coffee can be a fantastic experience, but it’s essential to approach it with care. Start with a low dose of cannabis or CBD, especially if you’re new to infused drinks, as the effects can be stronger and longer-lasting than smoking. Always be aware of how much caffeine and sugar you’re consuming alongside the THC or CBD, as these can interact and affect your body in different ways.
Store any cannabis-infused butter or oil in a secure place, out of reach of children and pets, and clearly label it to avoid any mix-ups. Remember to pace yourself—weed coffee can take a while to kick in, so give your body time to adjust before having another cup. By staying aware and taking these essential precautions, you can enjoy your weed coffee safely and make the most of its unique blend of effects.
Final Tips for Brewing Weed Coffee
Always use fats (butter, coconut oil) to extract cannabinoids
Don’t overheat your mix - THC can degrade at high temperatures
Store your cannabis-infused butter in an airtight jar in the fridge
Be patient - edibles take 30-90 minutes to kick in, and last several hours
Weed Coffee: Final Thoughts
Weed coffee is more than just a gimmick. It’s a way to level up your morning routine or wind down after work, combining two culturally rich and biologically powerful plants into one potent experience. For coffee and cannabis lovers, weed coffee is a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds. Many users feel treated to a unique and pleasurable experience when enjoying weed coffee, especially when paired with infused chocolate or cookies for greater indulgence. From Cape Town’s cafes to backyard braais in Pretoria, weed coffee is a trend that’s likely to grow as South Africa’s cannabis culture matures.
Just remember; start low, go slow, and savor the blend. With the right strain, method, and mindset, you might just find your new favorite way to start the day.
