Description
Ermine Frosting is a light, silky, and creamy frosting that’s not overly sweet. Made with a cooked flour and milk base, it whips up into a fluffy, buttery texture that’s perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and pastries. This classic frosting, also known as boiled milk frosting, is the original topping for red velvet cake, but it pairs beautifully with almost any dessert!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Ermine Frosting:
- 1 cup (245 g) whole milk
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Additions:
- Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
- ¼ cup cocoa powder (for chocolate frosting)
- ½ teaspoon lemon or almond extract (for a unique twist)
Instructions
- Cook the Flour & Milk Mixture:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk and flour until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap (press it onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and let it cool completely.
- Cream the Butter & Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar on high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Once the milk mixture is completely cool, gradually add it to the butter mixture, beating on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Whip Until Fluffy:
- Continue beating for another 2-3 minutes until the frosting becomes silky, airy, and holds its shape.
- Use Immediately or Store:
- Spread or pipe onto cakes and cupcakes right away.
- If not using immediately, store in the refrigerator and re-whip before using.
Notes
- Cool the milk mixture completely before adding it to the butter. If it’s even slightly warm, it can melt the butter and ruin the texture.
- Whip the butter and sugar thoroughly to ensure a smooth, non-grainy frosting.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Re-whip before using for the best consistency.
- For a stiffer frosting, chill for 10-15 minutes before piping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American