Space Cake Recipe: How to Bake Your Own Amsterdam-Style Space Cake

Key Findings

• Space cakes are cannabis edibles consumed orally; their effects take time to kick in (30–120 minutes) and can last 4–8 hours, sometimes up to 12 hours
• Decarboxylation (approx. 110–120 °C, 30–40 minutes) and the preparation of cannabutter form the essential foundation of every space cake recipe
• Accurate dosing is crucial: 5–10 mg of THC per serving for beginners; always cut the cake into equal-sized pieces and label them
• Edibles account for about 10% of cannabis-related emergencies—even though they make up only a small fraction of the total amount of THC sold; in Canada, three-quarters of all cannabis poisonings in children are caused by edibles, highlighting the particular dangers they pose to children
• It is recommended to seek medical or professional advice regarding the dosage and use of space cakes to ensure safe and effective use
• Alternatives to smoking: Vaping with vaporizers like the Relict Voity norddampf a faster, more controllable effect without the need to smoke

Introduction: What is a space cake?

The space cake is more than just a cake. It is a piece of cannabis culture that originated in the coffee shops of Amsterdam. Since the 1990s, people there have been enjoying this classic treat as a discreet alternative to joints. Today, space cakes are an integral part of the cannabis world and exemplify the diversity of cannabis consumption. They demonstrate how consumption methods have evolved from traditional practices like smoking to edible products, which are gaining increasing social and cultural acceptance.

At its core, a space cake is a simple sponge cake—often chocolate or vanilla—in which regular butter is replaced with homemade cannabutter. The cannabinoids are activated during baking and take effect after consumption. In California, where cannabis has been legalized, edibles are widespread and come in various forms, such as THC-infused macarons. In North America, over 40% of non-medical users consume edibles, which demonstrates the social acceptance of cannabis as a recreational substance. Space cakes are among the best-known THC-infused foods and are frequently consumed as a snack, which also raises social and legal questions regarding packaging and accessibility.

The key difference from smoking: When space cakes are consumed, THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver. This conversion to 11-hydroxy-THC results in a more intense and longer-lasting effect than when smoking. The high usually begins after 30–90 minutes, peaks after 2–4 hours, and can last up to 8–12 hours in total. In addition to classic THC varieties, there are also recipes featuring hash, CBD-dominant strains, and even vegan space cakes.

Legal Information Regarding Space Cakes in Germany (as of 2026)

The possession and cultivation of cannabis have been legal in Germany since April 2024, subject to certain conditions. However, edibles remain subject to strict regulations. In Germany, the sale of THC-containing edibles is prohibited, and they may only be dispensed to medical cannabis patients in pharmacies with a prescription.

This article is intended solely for adult readers and does not constitute an invitation to engage in illegal activities. CBD products that fall below the legal limits are treated differently—however, current regulations should always be checked.

Safety warning: Never store edibles within reach of children or pets. In Canada, three-quarters of all cannabis poisonings in children are caused by edibles. If you have any questions about usage or dosage, we recommend consulting a doctor or a professional.

Basics: Effects & Dosage of Space Cakes

Edibles differ fundamentally from smoking or vaping. The effects of space cakes typically kick in between 30 minutes and 2 hours after consumption, depending on factors such as metabolism and dosage. The effects of space cakes can last between 4 and 12 hours, making them last longer than smoked cannabis.

The effects of edibles like space cakes or cookies often don’t kick in until 30 to 120 minutes later, which can lead to unintentional “dose stacking” and overdose. That’s why the rule of thumb is: Wait at least 90–120 minutes before considering another serving.

Space cakes and other edibles, such as cookies, are often shared with friends, making for a special social experience.

Dosage example:

factor	Calculation
Amount of cannabis	1 g of flowers
THC content	15 %
Total THC	150 mg
Number of pieces	15
THC per unit	10 mg

For beginners, we recommend 5–10 mg of THC per serving. Everyone’s body reacts differently—start low and increase gradually.

Classic Space Cake Recipe (Amsterdam-style)

This recipe makes about 12 pieces and is based on a simple sponge cake. It’s so easy to make that you can easily bake space cakes at home. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and baking time is 25–30 minutes. Total time, including cooling: about 1 hour.

The preparation method is simple: Replace all or part of the regular butter with homemade cannabis butter. If you want to test the effects first, you can use a 50/50 mix. Alternatively, you can use brownie batter as the base for space cakes, which is particularly popular. In the final step, simply mix all the ingredients thoroughly before pouring the batter into the pan and baking it. After baking, let it cool completely, cut it into equal-sized pieces, and label them: “Contains cannabis.” Nothing tastes as delicious as a homemade space cake!

Ingredients for your space cake

Basic ingredients:

• 200 g all-purpose flour
• 150 g granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 150 g butter (including 100–150 g cannabis butter)
• 50 g cocoa powder
• 1 packet of baking powder
• 100 ml milk
• A pinch of salt
• Vanilla sugar or vanilla extract

Optional ingredients:

• Chopped nuts
• chocolate chips
• Orange zest for extra flavor

Strains such as Lemon Shining Silver Haze are ideal for making cannabutter—a sativa strain with a THC content of 15–20% that imparts a fresh lemon flavor and a stimulating effect when baked. Purple Queen is an indica-dominant hybrid strain with a THC content of 22% that produces a fruity aroma and a relaxing effect.

For a mild recipe: Use 2–4 g of flowers containing 10–15% THC in the cannabis butter. You can find the exact dosage calculation above.

Here's how to bake your space cake, step by step

1. Preheat the oven to about 170–175 °C (top and bottom heat). Line a cake pan (e.g., 20×30 cm) with parchment paper or grease it.
2. Cream the cannabis butter and sugar together in a mixing bowl—preferably using a whisk or hand mixer.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, cocoa, salt) separately, then stir them into the batter alternately with the milk. Finally, mix everything well until a smooth batter forms. Alternatively, you can use brownie batter for space cakes to create a particularly chocolatey version with cannabis.
5. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth it out. Optionally, sprinkle with nuts or chocolate chips.
6. Space cakes usually take 25 to 40 minutes to bake at a temperature of about 175°C, depending on the recipe. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick; it should come out with just a few crumbs.
7. Let the cake rest in the pan for at least 15 minutes, then let it cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Cut into 12 equal pieces. Never bake at temperatures above 180 °C—this would break down the cannabinoids.

Decarboxylation & Cannabutter: The Real Secret to Your Space Cake

Without decarboxylation, there is no effect. Raw cannabis contains THCA—a non-psychoactive precursor. It is only when heated that it turns into active THC. The genetics of the cannabis strain used have a significant influence on the effects and aroma of the space cake. The process takes place in two steps: first in the oven, then by gently simmering in butter or oil.

Precise temperature control is crucial. An oven thermometer and low cooking heat ensure both effectiveness and flavor. When choosing a strain, hybrids can offer different effects and diverse terpene profiles thanks to their unique genetics.

Step 1: Decarboxylate cannabis or hash

1. Preheat the oven to 110–120 °C
2. Finely chop the cannabis flowers or hash
3. Spread the mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
4. Heat for about 30–40 minutes
5. Turn carefully halfway through

Before making space cakes, the cannabis should be decarboxylated to activate the psychoactive properties of the THC. The result: dry, slightly crumbly, golden-green buds. Brown or burnt? Then the temperature was too high.

Step 2: Make cannabis butter or cannabis oil

Making space cakes requires the preparation of cannabis butter, which is created by slowly heating cannabis in butter to transfer the active compounds into the fat.

1. Melt 250 g of butter with a little water in a saucepan
2. Add decarboxylated cannabis
3. Let it steep for 1–2 hours at a low temperature (max. 90 °C)
4. Stir occasionally – do not boil vigorously
5. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve or a nut milk bag
6. Let it set in the refrigerator, then separate the fat from the water

Alternatively, coconut oil or canola oil also work—ideal for vegan recipes. Always make a note of how much weed was used in how much butter.

Varieties: Hash Space Cake, CBD Space Cake, and a vegan version

The basic technique remains the same. Only the ingredients are adjusted. In addition to space cakes, cookies are also very popular edibles, known for their pleasant taste and often potent effects. Hash-based varieties are often stronger and have a less “herbal” taste. CBD space cakes offer relaxation without an intense high. Vegan alternatives completely replace animal-based products.

Hash Space Cake: A stronger high, a different taste

Hash usually has a higher THC content per gram than flower—typically 20–50%. That means you need less of it to get the same effect.

Procedure:

• Crumble the hash finely
• How to decarboxylate flowers (110–120 °C, 30–40 min)
• Simmer in butter (1–2 hours over low heat)

Dosage: 1–2 g of hash with 25–30% THC instead of 3–4 g of flower. The taste? Less grassy, often nuttier or spicier.

Note: Hash Space Cakes are intended for experienced cannabis enthusiasts. Choose your dosage very carefully.

CBD & Vegan Space Cakes

CBD flowers are ideal for non-psychoactive varieties. Solomatic CBD is a strain containing 21% CBD and 1% THC that provides therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects when baked—making it ideal for medicinal use or relaxation.

CBD variant: Decarboxylate and extract 3 g of CBD flowers containing 10–15% CBD in 250 g of coconut oil.

Vegan mix:

• Butter → Coconut oil
• Cow's milk → Oat milk or almond milk
• Eggs → Apple sauce (about 60 g per egg) or flaxseed gel

The consistency becomes slightly thicker, but the cannabidiol effect remains the same. For that Amsterdam vibe: add orange zest, cinnamon, and dark chocolate.

Consumption, Safety, and Alternatives to Eating

Responsible consumption isn’t an option—it’s a must. Since space cakes are considered food, they are subject to specific legal and safety requirements that differ from those of other consumption methods. Inexperienced users often report symptoms such as a racing heart, dizziness, and inner restlessness after consuming edibles, which can be frightening. Always consume edibles in a calm environment. Do not drive. Do not drink alcohol.

Start by testing it on your days off or in the evenings. You need to be able to plan around its long-lasting effects.

Safe Consumption of Space Cakes

Practical tips:

• Start with no more than 1 piece (5–10 mg THC)
• Wait at least 90–120 minutes before adding more
• Drink plenty of water or tea
• Eat light snacks
• Avoid alcohol and other drugs

Symptoms of an overdose: panic, rapid heartbeat, severe drowsiness, paranoia. Generally harmless, but unpleasant.

First aid:

• Quiet surroundings
• Lie down and calm your breathing
• Chew peppercorns or use CBD oil
• Have a trusted person nearby

Who should avoid eating space cake? People with cardiovascular disease, severe pre-existing mental health conditions, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding.

Vaporizers as an alternative: RELICT VOITY Norddampf

Not everyone wants to wait hours for the effects to kick in. Vaporizers offer an alternative that takes effect quickly.

How it works: Flowers or concentrates are heated to 160–220 °C. The active ingredients are inhaled as vapor—without combustion and without the toxic byproducts of smoking.

The Relict and Voity from norddampf modern, portable vaporizers for dried herbs. The devices offer precise temperature control and even heat distribution.

Advantages over space cakes:

Property	Edibles	vaporizer
onset of effect	30–120 min	2–5 min
Controllability	Difficult	Excellent
duration of effect	4–12 hours	2–4 hours
Calories	Yes	None
Preparation	Elaborate	Minimal

For anyone looking to enjoy cannabis without smoking and without waiting for hours: vaping is the most efficient way to consume it. The same rule applies here: start small and gain experience.

Storage & Shelf Life of Space Cakes

Proper storage ensures both hygiene and consistent quality. Space Cakes should be stored in a cool, dark place. Heat, light, and oxygen break down cannabinoids and terpenes—the appearance remains similar, but the effects and aroma suffer.

Always store in an airtight container and label clearly: “THC – keep out of reach of children.” Glass containers with tight-fitting lids also help reduce odors.

How long do space cakes last?

Storage	Shelf life
Room temperature	2–3 days
Refrigerator	5–7 days
Frozen	2–3 months

Tips:

• Cut the cake into portions
• Pack individually in freezer bags
• Note the date of manufacture and dosage
• Always store in a place where children and pets cannot reach it

The taste and texture may be slightly affected after freezing. The potency of the active ingredients remains stable when stored properly.

FAQ on Space Cake Recipes

How much cannabis should you put in a space cake for beginners?

Aim for 5–10 mg of THC per serving. For example: 1 g of flower with 10% THC contains approximately 100 mg of THC. If you cut it into 10 pieces, that would be 10 mg per piece—which is sufficient for beginners. Individual factors such as body weight, experience, and metabolism play a role. It’s better to start with a lower dose than a higher one.

When should I avoid eating space cake?

Avoid eating space cakes before driving, working, taking exams, or attending important appointments. They are not suitable for people with cardiovascular problems or untreated mental health conditions, or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Consuming them alongside alcohol or other drugs can intensify the effects in unpredictable ways.

Why does my space cake have almost no effect or an extremely strong one?

Common causes: improper decarboxylation, uneven distribution of the cannabis butter, incorrect baking temperature. Individual differences in metabolism also play a role. Next time: calculate the dosage carefully, mix thoroughly, and bake precisely.

Can I make space cake using a ready-made cake mix?

Yes. Standard store-bought cake mixes for sponge cakes or brownies work well. Replace all or part of the usual amount of butter or oil with cannabutter. Keep the baking temperature within the recommended range (160–180 °C).

What should I do if I've eaten too much space cake?

In most cases, rest, fluids, and time are all you need. Lie down, breathe deeply and calmly, and eat light snacks like cookies or brownies. Having a trusted person nearby can help. If you feel very unwell or experience symptoms such as chest pain, seek medical help. This isn’t a sign of weakness—medical professionals are familiar with these situations.

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Space cakes are a journey. An experience that requires patience, knowledge, and respect. With the right recipe, precise dosing, and responsible consumption, your homemade space cake will be a controlled pleasure.

Start small. Take your time. Savour the moment.