Cannabis sugar is a dazzling concentrate known for its grainy, sugar-like texture and potent sparkle. A hybrid between wax and crumble, it’s easy to work with and packs a punch—here’s how to create this crystalline treat:
What is Cannabis Sugar?
Cannabis sugar, or “sugar wax,” is a hydrocarbon-extracted concentrate made with butane or propane, purged into a wet, granular form. With THC levels typically between 70-90%, it offers a sticky, terpene-rich consistency that resembles coarse sugar.
Why Cannabis Sugar Sparkles:
- Texture: Wet and crumbly—perfect for dabbing or topping.
- Potency: High cannabinoid content for a strong effect.
- Flavor: Retains terpenes for a sweet, aromatic hit.
- Versatility: Use it solo or mix into other products.
How to Make Cannabis Sugar:
- Extraction:
- Pass chilled butane or propane through cannabis in a closed-loop system at -20°F to -50°F (-29°C to -45°C).
- Collection:
- Collect the solvent-extract mix in a heated vessel.
- Purging:
- Vacuum purge at 95°F-105°F (35°C-41°C) with -29 inHg vacuum for 12-24 hours, stirring lightly mid-process.
- Crystallization:
- Let it sit warm (80°F-90°F/27°C-32°C) post-purge to form small, wet crystals—avoid over-drying.
- Finishing:
- Scoop out the sticky, sugary result once it stabilizes.
Tips for Sugar Success:
- Moderate Heat: Stay around 100°F (38°C) during purge—too hot dries it to crumble, too cool keeps it budder.
- Light Stir: Agitate gently mid-purge to encourage small crystal formation—overmixing smooths it out.
- Fresh Material: Fresh-frozen cannabis boosts terpene content for a saucier sugar.
- Purge Time: Stop when it’s tacky but not runny—perfect sugar is moist, not dry.
Uses:
- Dabbing: Scoop and vaporize for a flavorful hit.
- Topping: Sprinkle over flower for extra potency.
- Infusions: Melt into edibles after decarb.
Conclusion:
Crafting cannabis sugar is a delicate balance of heat, purge, and patience, yielding a concentrate that’s as fun to use as it is potent. With its sugary crunch and sticky shine, it’s a standout addition to any extractor’s repertoire.
