Easy Ermine Frosting Recipe

This French-inspired topping is smooth, rich and creates a flavor that’s very similar to a cream cheese frosting. Also known as heritage frosting, boiled milk frosting or flour buttercream, ermine frosting is firm enough to hold its shape, but can also be used as an airy filling. This unique twist on vanilla buttercream frosting is light, not as sweet and also egg-free, making it perfect for pairing with rich cakes like red velvet, butter, or chocolate. Although it takes a bit longer than other frostings to make, it's simple to whip up and pipes beautifully.

Prep20 min
Total Time2 hr
Skill LevelBeginner

Amount2 cups

Ingredients & Tools
Instructions

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Clear Imitation Vanilla Baking and Flavoring, 8 oz. $6.59

Tools
Medium saucepan
Whisk
Medium bowl
Electric mixer

Instructions

Click to mark complete

In a medium saucepan, stir together the sugar, flour and salt. Whisk in milk until smooth.
Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until very thick, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and pour into medium bowl. Press plastic wrap over top of mixture and sides of bowl to seal completely and prevent a skin from forming. Let cool to room temperature (about 1 to 1-1/2 hours).
Once cooled, beat butter with electric stand mixer (if available) at medium speed for 5 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Next, add milk mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, to whipped butter and beat until smooth, scraping down bottom and sides of bowl often.
Then add vanilla extract and beat for 3 more minutes, or until the ermine frosting reaches the consistency of whipped cream.

Notes

- This recipe makes about enough ermine frosting to cover and decorate a single 6-inch round cake.
- To speed up cooling: Put the mixture in the fridge, but don't let it chill to below room temperature.
- To store: Store any excess ermine frosting in the fridge and re-whip before using again.

How To

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