Ermine frosting, also known as man frosting, boiled milk frosting, or cooked flour frosting, is a velvety, light, and not-too-sweet frosting that has stood the test of time. This traditional frosting, dating back to the 1800s, is famously the original frosting for red velvet cake. Its smooth, creamy texture and less expensive ingredients made it especially popular during the Great Depression. For anyone passionate about cooking, recipes, and bon appetit-worthy treats, this ermine frosting recipe is a must-try that delivers a delightful twist on your favorite cakes and cupcakes.
Getting Started: The Cooked Base of Ermine Frosting
The magic of ermine frosting starts with cooking the base. Begin by combining 2 cups (400 g) of granulated sugar with 2/3 cup (80 g) of all-purpose flour in a pan. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly to prevent any clumps from forming — smoothness is key here. The name "man frosting" comes from its silky smooth texture, reminiscent of the soft, spotted fur often depicted on kings and queens in cartoons.
Next, whisk in 2 cups of whole milk until perfectly blended. Place the pan over medium-high heat and start whisking constantly. Using a narrow whisk is highly recommended as it helps reach into the corners of the pan for even cooking.
Patience is essential during this step. Keep whisking without walking away to avoid scorching, which would ruin the creamy texture. After about 6 to 8 minutes, the mixture will begin to simmer. As soon as it does, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue whisking for another 1 to 2 minutes until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
The Perfect Pudding Base
Once thickened, remove the cooked mixture from the heat and transfer it to a glass bowl. This thick, silky base is essentially an unflavored milk pudding, ready to be transformed into luscious frosting. To prevent a skin from forming on top, press a piece of parchment paper directly onto the surface. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, which can take about 3 hours, or make it a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before using.
Adding Butter and Bringing the Frosting to Life
Once the base has cooled, the next step is to incorporate butter. Use 1 pound (450 g or 2 cups) of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. The butter should be soft enough that your fingers can make a slight indentation without much pressure.
Add half a teaspoon of salt to the butter and beat it on medium speed using a paddle attachment until it becomes smooth, creamy, and light—about 2 minutes. This is the moment when the frosting starts to develop its luxurious texture.
Now, it’s time to add the cooled ermine base to the butter. Since the mixture might stick to the parchment or plastic wrap, have a spatula ready to scrape every bit into the bowl. Add the base gradually, about 2 to 3 tablespoons at a time, mixing on medium-low speed and scraping down the sides frequently. This slow incorporation ensures the frosting stays smooth and homogeneous.
Flavor and Final Whip
After fully mixing in the base, add 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for another minute. The texture will change into a fluffy, cloud-like frosting that is both creamy and light.
This frosting shares a similar vibe with Swiss or Italian buttercream but is much easier to make. It’s perfect if you prefer a frosting that isn’t overly sweet but still offers a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. It’s a versatile choice for cakes, cupcakes, or even eating by the spoonful!
Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions
Ermine frosting keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to use, bring it to room temperature and give it a good whip to restore its creamy texture. It also freezes beautifully for up to three months. To prevent a film from forming, press plastic wrap directly onto the frosting before sealing the container.
This frosting is incredibly versatile. Use it to frost red velvet cakes, cupcakes, or “poopy pies” (a playful name for cream pies). Its pleasant way of dissolving in your mouth with a perfectly balanced sweetness makes it a crowd favorite.
If you’re passionate about cooking, recipes, and bon appetit moments, this ermine frosting recipe is a timeless addition to your baking repertoire. Its classic roots and delightful texture make every bite a celebration of tradition and taste.
This article was created from the video Easy Ermine Frosting Recipe with the help of AI.
Easy Ermine Frosting Recipe: A Classic Delight for Cooking, Recipes, Bon Appetit Lovers. There are any Easy Ermine Frosting Recipe: A Classic Delight for Cooking, Recipes, Bon Appetit Lovers in here.
