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Ermine Frosting Recipe

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Ermine Frosting is a classic, silky, and fluffy frosting made by cooking a mixture of sugar, flour, salt, and milk into a thick base that is then whipped with butter and vanilla. It provides a smooth, less sweet alternative to traditional buttercream, perfect for cupcakes, cakes, and other desserts.

  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 22 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients and milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar, flour, and salt. Whisk in the milk continuously until the mixture is smooth with no lumps.
  2. Cook until thickened: Cook the mixture over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, whisking frequently. It should thicken significantly, resembling the consistency of sweetened condensed milk. Remove from heat once thickened.
  3. Cool the mixture: Pour the mixture into a bowl. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and sides of the mixture to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool completely to room temperature, which takes about an hour. To speed this up, refrigerate briefly but do not let it get colder than room temperature to avoid hardening.
  4. Beat the butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature unsalted butter with a hand or stand mixer on medium-high speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  5. Incorporate the cooled flour mixture: Gradually add the cooled flour mixture one tablespoon at a time to the whipped butter. Beat well after each addition until the frosting is smooth and fully combined. Be careful that the flour mixture is not warm, as that will melt the butter and ruin the texture.
  6. Add vanilla extract and mix: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly blended. The frosting should be silky smooth with a light, whipped texture.
  7. Frost your desserts: Use a spatula or piping bag to spread or pipe the ermine frosting onto cupcakes or cakes. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the flour mixture is completely cooled to room temperature before adding it to the butter to prevent melting.
  • Use room temperature butter for easier whipping and better texture.
  • If your flour mixture develops lumps, strain it before cooling to achieve a smooth frosting.
  • This frosting is less sweet and lighter than traditional buttercream, making it a great option for those who prefer subtle sweetness.
  • Store frosted cakes in the refrigerator but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.