9 Best Strains for Making Edibles

Looking to make quality cannabis edibles? The strain you choose can make a big difference. 

Some strains pack incredible flavor, others bring balanced effects, and some are better for mellow, CBD‑forward treats. Below are a few of our favorites, along with a broader array of popular strains that tend to perform well in edibles. Just remember: edibles are very subjective, and there’s no “one‑size‑fits‑all.” That being said, use this as a guideline, not gospel.

Our favorite strains for edibles

Strawberry Cheesecake

Strawberry Cheesecake

For flavor lovers: Strawberry Cheesecake stands out because of its sweet, dessert‑like terpene profile that can shine through in baked goods, cookies, candies, or infused oils. If you’re making sweets or want a fruity‑rich flavor in your edible, Strawberry Cheesecake is a top pick.

CBD Trifecta

CBD Trifecta seed pack

CBD Trifecta brings a more balanced, mild, or therapeutic edible. For those who want CBD-forward effects (relaxation, calm, lighter feel) without an overpowering THC high, CBD Trifecta is ideal. It’s great for daytime edibles or for people who want gentle effects without too much intensity.

Blue Dream

Humboldt Dream cannabis strain

A forever crowd favorite, Blue Dream is a balanced hybrid with a smooth, berry-sweet flavor. It works well in desserts or mellow daytime edibles: a pleasant, approachable effect that pairs nicely with a variety of recipes.

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)

G.S. Cookies

Potent, flavorful, and versatile, G.S. Cookies are ideal for brownies, chocolate, or heavier edibles when you want stronger effects and a rich, complex flavor profile.

OG Kush

OG Kush

A classic strain with earthy, piney flavors and reliably strong effects. OG Kush works especially well in savory dishes or relaxation-focused edibles.

Lemon Haze

California Haze

Uplifting and citrusy, Lemon Haze is packed with bright, zesty flavors that complement daytime-style edibles and lighter baked goods.

Harlequin

Capitate-stalked trichomes where cannabinoids and terpenes are produced.

High-CBD with a lower-THC profile, Harlequin is excellent for mild, therapeutic edibles. It’s also great for those looking to avoid intense psychoactive effects while still enjoying flavor and subtle relaxation.

Pineapple Express

Pineapple Muffin 

Fruity and sweet, Pineapple strains works beautifully in candies, syrups, tropical-style edibles, or any recipe that calls for a tropical, fruit-forward flavor.

White Widow

Ground white widow cannabis flower for making edibles.

Balanced effects with moderate potency, White Widow is a versatile all-around choice. It’s a go-to for both beginners and seasoned edible makers, delivering dependable flavor and consistent effects.

How to choose the right strain for your edibles

While these are certainly some crowd favorites, choosing a strain for edibles isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for you depends on what kind of experience you want. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:

1. Decide your goal (flavor, effect, balance)

If you care most about taste (for sweets, desserts, fruit‑forward recipes), opt for terpene-rich or fruity strains (like Strawberry Cheesecake, Pineapple Express, Lemon Haze). 

Baked Alaska infused with Blueberry Muffin cannabis terpenes extracted through steam.

If you want stronger effects or relaxing body highs, consider potent hybrids or THC‑forward strains (like GSC, OG Kush, Blue Dream). If you want mild or therapeutic vibes, go for CBD‑rich or balanced strains (like CBD Trifecta or Harlequin).

2. Think about your recipe

Some flavors complement desserts, while others pair better with savory or herbal recipes.

Steam extracted OG Kush terpenes served with a basil sauce over corn chowder.

For example, savory dishes or oils might do well with piney/earthy strains like OG Kush or White Widow; fruit‑forward desserts shine with Strawberry Cheesecake or Pineapple Express.

3. Consider potency and dosing 

High‑THC strains might require careful dosing, while CBD‑ or balanced strains give more control and may lead to mellower effects.

4. Personal tolerance and experience level

Beginners or those sensitive to THC might prefer milder, balanced, or CBD‑heavy strains.

Experienced users might enjoy stronger strains or richer terpene profiles.

5. Batch consistency matters

If you plan to make multiple batches, consistent genetics and stable cannabinoid/terpene expression help ensure similar outcomes each time.

A few last things to consider

Before you go…

• Cooking method matters. Infused butter, cooking oils, and tinctures all extract cannabinoids differently, so your strain’s flavor can shift depending on how you use it.
• Experiment with combos. Some edible makers blend strains to create a unique flavor and effect profile: think a hint of GSC with a dash of CBD Trifecta for balanced, relaxing treats.
• Temperature is key. Overheating can destroy delicate terpenes and cannabinoids, dulling both flavor and potency. Keep baking temperatures in check and use low-heat infusions when possible.
• Pair with flavors you love. Chocolate, citrus, mangoes, berries, vanilla, and even herbs like mint or rosemary can complement your strain’s natural terpene profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
• Have fun with recipes. Classic brownies and cookies are reliable, but edibles can be candy, gummies, infused nut butters, vinaigrettes, or even cocktail syrups. The possibilities are endless, as long as your strain choice matches your flavor and effect goals.

Remember, making edibles is part art, part science. Pick the strain that excites you, match it to your recipe, and don’t be afraid to have fun with it. With these nine favorites, you’ve got a strong starting lineup to create flavorful, memorable bites.