Ermine frosting, also known as flour buttercream or cooked milk frosting, might sound a bit fancy, but trust me, it’s incredibly easy to make! This frosting, with its light, fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor, has been a beloved choice for generations. It’s the perfect topping for classic cakes like red velvet and chocolate, adding a touch of nostalgia and homemade goodness to every slice.
If you’re looking for a frosting that’s not overly sweet and boasts a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the world of ermine frosting and learn how to make this classic recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To recreate the magic of ermine frosting in your own kitchen, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Ingredients:
- 2 ounces unsweetened baking chocolate, melted and cooled (for chocolate ermine frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (for a hint of almond flavor)
Tools to Gather:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Flour Mixture: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent any sticking.
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Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and transfer the thickened flour mixture to a bowl. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool completely to room temperature before proceeding.
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined and the mixture is pale and creamy.
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Incorporate the Cooled Flour Mixture: Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, one spoonful at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
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Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. At this point, you can also add any optional flavorings, such as melted chocolate or almond extract. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Tips and Tricks:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For optimal creaminess, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. Cold butter won’t incorporate as smoothly.
- Preventing Lumps: Whisking the flour and milk together before heating is crucial for a lump-free frosting.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the frosting seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk at a time to reach your desired consistency.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different extracts, like almond, lemon, or coconut, to customize the flavor to your liking.
FAQs about Ermine Frosting:
Q: Can I make ermine frosting ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Ermine frosting can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and give it a good whisk before using.
Q: What kind of cakes pair well with ermine frosting?
A: Ermine frosting is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide range of cakes, including:
- Red Velvet Cake: The tangy flavor of red velvet cake is perfectly balanced by the subtle sweetness of ermine frosting.
- Chocolate Cake: The combination of rich chocolate cake and light, fluffy ermine frosting is simply irresistible.
- Spice Cake: The warm spices in a spice cake complement the comforting flavor of this frosting.
- Banana Cake: The subtle sweetness of ermine frosting won’t overpower the delicate banana flavor.
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter to have more control over the saltiness of your frosting.
Presenting Your Masterpiece:
Once your cake is baked and cooled, it’s time to frost! Ermine frosting is easy to spread and holds its shape beautifully. You can create a smooth finish or get creative with piping techniques.
