Are you tired of the same old frosting options for your cakes and cupcakes? Looking for a smooth and creamy alternative that is not overly sweet? Then look no further! We have the perfect solution for you – flour frosting, also known as ermine frosting or heritage frosting.
This old-fashioned French-inspired buttercream is made with flour, sugar, milk, and butter. It has a silky smooth texture and a delicate sweetness that perfectly complements any cake or cupcake. But what makes flour frosting so special?
How to Make Ermine Frosting
To make ermine frosting, start by combining flour, sugar, and salt in a medium pot. Whisk to combine. Add milk and vanilla extract, then cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture boils and thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
In a separate bowl, whip softened butter until pale and fluffy. Slowly add the cooled flour mixture to the butter while it continues to whip. Incorporate the mixture slowly until all of it is added. Continue to whip the buttercream on high for a few minutes until it is smooth and fluffy.
Additional flavorings can be added to the buttercream, such as freeze-dried berry powder, peanut butter powder, espresso powder, cocoa powder, chocolate, caramel, dulce de leche, or lemon curd.
If the buttercream is too soft, it can be chilled in the fridge for a short time before rewhipping.
With just a few simple steps, you can create delicious ermine frosting that will take your cakes and cupcakes to the next level. The smooth and fluffy texture, combined with the perfect balance of sweetness, makes ermine frosting a favorite among bakers. The addition of different flavors adds even more excitement to this versatile frosting. Whether you prefer the tanginess of lemon curd or the richness of chocolate, ermine frosting can be customized to suit your taste. So, dive into the world of ermine frosting and elevate your baking game to new heights!
Tips and Troubleshooting for Ermine Frosting
When making ermine frosting, it is important to ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in achieving the desired consistency and smoothness. If the frosting turns out too soft, a simple solution is to chill it in the fridge for a short time before rewhipping. This will help firm it up and make it easier to work with.
In some cases, the frosting may appear curdled, which could be due to the butter or flour mixture being too cold. To fix this, warm up the mixture slightly by placing the bowl over a pot of simmering water or using a hairdryer on low heat. Gently heat the mixture until it becomes smooth and cohesive.
If you find that the ermine frosting is too sweet for your taste, there are ways to adjust the sweetness level. Adding a bit more salt can help balance out the sweetness. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe to your preference. Remember to make these adjustments gradually, tasting as you go, until you achieve the desired level of sweetness.
Ermine frosting can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for planning ahead. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to use the frosting, make sure to bring it to room temperature and rewhip it to restore its fluffy texture before frosting your cakes or cupcakes.