Ultimate Ermine Frosting

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When it comes to frosting, this one’s a showstopper. Ermine frosting, also known as “cooked flour frosting,” is velvety smooth, buttery, and light as a cloud. It’s like wrapping your favorite cake in a sweet, fluffy hug. If buttercream and whipped cream had a delicious baby, this would be it. The best part? It’s not overly sweet, so it lets the flavor of your cake shine. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never go back to plain frosting. Let’s dive in and make some frosting magic!

Why You’ll Love Ultimate Ermine Frosting

This frosting isn’t just about texture—it’s about creating pure bliss. Whether you’re frosting a birthday cake, layering cupcakes, or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl, this frosting has you covered. Here’s why it’s so special:

Versatile: Perfect for any cake, from classic chocolate to zesty lemon. It’s light enough to pair with delicate sponges yet creamy enough for rich, dense cakes.

Easy to Make: Don’t let the name intimidate you. The steps are simple, and the results are stunning.

Not Too Sweet: If you’re not a fan of overly sugary frostings, this one’s for you. It’s just the right balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Dreamy Texture: Silky, fluffy, and oh-so-smooth. It spreads like a dream and holds its shape beautifully.

Crowd Favorite: Whether it’s kids at a party or adults at a dinner, everyone loves this frosting. It’s the ultimate finishing touch for any dessert.

Ingredients

Let’s break down the magic behind this light, creamy delight:

Flour: The unsung hero of this frosting. Cooked flour creates the smooth, stable base that gives this frosting its unique texture.

Milk: The creamy partner to the flour, turning it into a luscious paste. Whole milk works best for richness.

Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is used here, which dissolves beautifully in the milk mixture for just the right sweetness.

Butter: The star of the show! Unsalted butter gives this frosting its creamy, rich flavor.

Vanilla Extract: The perfect finishing touch that adds warmth and depth to every bite.

Instructions

Let’s whip up this dreamy frosting step by step:

Cook the Base

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.

Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Sugar

Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy and smooth.

Blend the Base

Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter mixture, one spoonful at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. This ensures a silky, lump-free frosting.

Flavor It Up

Mix in the vanilla extract and beat the frosting for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s light, fluffy, and irresistible.

How to Serve Ultimate Ermine Frosting

This frosting is a perfect partner for:

Layer Cakes: Spread generously between and over layers of your favorite cake. It’s particularly amazing with red velvet or chocolate.

Cupcakes: Pipe it high on top of cupcakes for a bakery-worthy finish.

Cookies: Use it as a filling for sandwich cookies or a topping for sugar cookies.

Brownies: A thick layer of this frosting transforms brownies into a gourmet treat.

Straight from the Bowl: No judgment here—it’s that good!

Additional Tips

  • Cool Completely: Make sure the cooked flour mixture is fully cooled before adding it to the butter. Warm paste can melt the butter and ruin the texture.
  • Beat Thoroughly: This frosting loves air, so beat it well for that light, fluffy texture.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
  • Double It Up: This recipe doubles beautifully if you’re frosting a larger cake.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use salted butter?
A1: You can, but skip adding extra salt to balance the flavor.

Q2: Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
A2: Yes, store it in the fridge, then bring it to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Q3: Can I color this frosting?
A3: Absolutely! Gel food coloring works best for vibrant hues.

Q4: Why does my frosting look curdled?
A4: Keep beating—it’ll come together as the butter incorporates the flour mixture.

Q5: Can I freeze it?
A5: Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw and re-whip before using.

Q6: Can I use plant-based milk?
A6: Yes, but the texture might be slightly different. Full-fat options like almond or oat milk work best.

Q7: Is this gluten-free?
A7: Not as written, but you can substitute gluten-free flour for a similar result.

Q8: Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
A8: Granulated works better for the texture, but powdered can be a substitute in a pinch.

Q9: Why does my frosting taste too buttery?
A9: Keep beating! Sometimes the sugar needs more time to fully incorporate.

Q10: Can I use this frosting for piping?
A10: Yes! It holds its shape well for decorative piping.

Conclusion

There you have it—Ultimate Ermine Frosting in all its fluffy glory! It’s creamy, smooth, and a true game-changer for your baked goods. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this frosting is the perfect way to add a little magic to your desserts. Happy baking!

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Ultimate Ermine Frosting

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Discover the legendary frosting once served at the Waldorf Astoria! Known as the “$300 Frosting,” this luxurious and silky Ermine Frosting is perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Made with simple pantry staples, it has a rich and creamy texture with a hint of vanilla. Get ready to wow your guests with this timeless treat!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Enough to frost a 9-inch two-layer cake or 24 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Stovetop + Mixing
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  1. 1 cup whole milk – Forms the pudding-like base for the frosting.
  2. 5 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the milk for a smooth, creamy texture.
  3. 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds richness and creaminess.
  4. 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the frosting perfectly.
  5. 1 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses the frosting with a delightful vanilla aroma.

Instructions

  • Prepare the Milk Base:
    • In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour over medium heat.
    • Cook the mixture while stirring constantly until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
    • Remove from heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.
  • Cream the Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step ensures a smooth texture.
  • Combine the Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the cooled milk mixture to the butter mixture. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fully incorporated.
  • Add the Finishing Touch:
    • Mix in the vanilla extract and continue whipping the frosting for 7-8 minutes until it becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.
  • Serve:
    • Use immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes. Enjoy the luxurious taste of this legendary frosting!

Notes

  • Ensure the milk-flour mixture is completely cool before adding it to the butter to avoid melting.
  • Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Whip again before use if needed.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tbsp
  • Calories: 145
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 1mg
  • Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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