Cannabis-infused Hanukkah dishes continue to grow in popularity, bringing a modern culinary twist to beloved traditions. Whether someone is frying up latkes, rolling out sufganiyot, or preparing a festive olive-oil-inspired entrée, the secret to a great infused holiday meal isn’t only flavor—it’s dosing. Getting the dose right allows cooks to keep everyone comfortable, safe, and happy around the menorah.

Proper dosing turns cannabis from a novelty into a refined ingredient. Experienced cooks know that dosing affects the entire dining experience. Each person at the table has a different tolerance, and Hanukkah meals often involve multiple courses. A well-dosed recipe helps keep the celebration enjoyable, uplifting, and far from overwhelming.

Start With a Tested Infusion

The most reliable way to control dose begins with accurately prepared infused oil, butter, or sugar. Cooks should always know the potency of their infusion before it enters a recipe. Using a kitchen-friendly formula—milligrams of THC divided by total tablespoons—helps determine how many milligrams are in each spoonful. For example, an infusion containing 300 mg of THC in 1 cup (16 tablespoons) delivers roughly 18.75 mg per tablespoon. This makes precise recipe adjustments easy.

Think “Low and Slow” for Groups

Hanukkah meals are typically shared with family and friends, so starting low is the most considerate approach. The sweet spot for infused foods at gatherings is often 2–5 mg THC per serving. This range delivers mild relaxation and festive warmth without overshadowing conversation or the joy of lighting the candles. Higher tolerances exist, of course, but cooks can always provide an “extra drizzle” on the side for experienced guests.

Adjust for Fat Content and Cooking Temperature

Many Hanukkah dishes involve frying or baking, and cooks must remember that THC is sensitive to high heat. While THC doesn’t instantly burn off, prolonged exposure above 315°F may degrade potency. When frying latkes, it’s common to add infused oil after cooking by drizzling or blending a small amount into sour cream or applesauce. For baked goods like sufganiyot, adding infused sugar, glaze, or filling after baking maintains more accurate dosing and better flavor.

Label and Communicate Clearly

The most skilled cannabis chefs know communication is part of the recipe. Keeping infused dishes clearly labeled helps avoid accidental consumption. During Hanukkah parties, it is wise to offer both infused and non-infused versions so everyone feels included. Guests appreciate when cooks explain the dose per serving and encourage pacing between courses.

Test the Recipe Before the Big Night

A practice batch is a culinary mitzvah. Testing a recipe ahead of the celebration allows the cook to verify flavor, potency, and portion size. It ensures the infused dish feels intentional rather than experimental. When Hanukkah dinner arrives, the final dish will shine confidently.

With thoughtful dosing, cannabis-infused Hanukkah foods can enrich tradition rather than overpower it. A steady hand, tested infusion, and clear communication help keep the holiday warm, bright, and delicious for all.