Vintage Ermine Frosting

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Silky, creamy, and wonderfully nostalgic, Vintage Ermine Frosting is the old-school buttercream you didn’t know you needed. Unlike traditional frostings made with powdered sugar, this one starts with a roux-like base of milk and flour, making it ultra-smooth with a balanced sweetness that feels light yet decadent.

This vintage recipe dates back to the early 1900s and was once the go-to frosting for red velvet cake before cream cheese took the spotlight. Its velvety texture spreads like a dream and pipes beautifully, making it perfect for cupcakes, layer cakes, and even cookies. If you’re looking to switch up your frosting game with something retro and truly satisfying, Ermine Frosting is a must-try.

---

What Kind of Butter Should I Use for Ermine Frosting?

Use high-quality unsalted butter that’s softened to room temperature. Since the flavor of this frosting relies heavily on the butter, choosing a rich, creamy brand makes a noticeable difference. Avoid margarine or salted butter, which can alter both the texture and taste.

---

Ingredients for the Vintage Ermine Frosting

Whole Milk: Essential for creating the cooked flour base. It provides richness and helps achieve that classic creamy consistency.

All-Purpose Flour: Cooked with the milk to form a thick paste, this replaces powdered sugar and stabilizes the frosting beautifully.

Granulated Sugar: Unlike many frostings, the sugar here is cooked and dissolved in the milk mixture, giving the final result a silky, non-gritty texture.

Unsalted Butter: Adds structure and richness once the milk/flour mixture cools. It whips up into a fluffy and stable base.

Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor and gives that nostalgic bakery-style taste.

Salt (optional): Just a pinch can enhance the overall flavor, especially if you’re using unsalted butter.

---

How To Make the Vintage Ermine Frosting

Step 1: Make the Milk and Flour Paste

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the whole milk and all-purpose flour over medium heat. Keep stirring constantly to prevent lumps and ensure the mixture doesn’t scorch. Cook until it thickens into a smooth, pudding-like consistency. This step is key for achieving the frosting’s signature texture. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool completely. You can speed this up by transferring it to a shallow bowl and covering it with plastic wrap (touching the surface) to prevent a skin from forming.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

While the roux is cooling, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together. Beat on high until the mixture is light, fluffy, and the sugar is mostly dissolved. This step helps develop the frosting’s volume and silky mouthfeel.

Step 3: Combine and Whip

Once the milk and flour mixture is fully cooled, gradually add it to the creamed butter while beating continuously. This slow addition helps emulsify the two components, preventing separation. Add in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt (if using). Continue whipping the frosting until it becomes fluffy, smooth, and holds peaks. The result should be a cloud-like, spreadable frosting that’s neither greasy nor overly sweet.

Step 4: Use Immediately or Store

Use the frosting right away for best texture, or refrigerate it if you’re prepping ahead. If chilled, let it come to room temperature and re-whip it briefly before using. Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, or a spoonful straight from the bowl (we won’t judge).

---

How to Serve and Store Vintage Ermine Frosting

Ermine Frosting is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with classic layer cakes, red velvet cupcakes, or even spread over soft sugar cookies. Its whipped, buttery texture makes it ideal for both spreading and piping, giving your desserts an old-fashioned yet elegant finish. For best results, apply it to completely cooled baked goods so it holds its shape.

To store, place any unused frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using, bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whip to restore its fluffy texture. If you plan to freeze it, make sure it’s well-sealed and use within 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and re-whip before frosting your treats.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Ermine Frosting different from buttercream?

Unlike classic American buttercream that uses powdered sugar, Ermine Frosting is made by cooking flour and milk into a thick paste. This gives it a silkier, less gritty texture and a more subtle sweetness.

Can I make Ermine Frosting ahead of time?

Yes! It stores well in the refrigerator for several days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature and re-whip before using for the best texture.

Why is my frosting curdled or separated?

This usually happens if the flour-milk mixture was too warm when added or if the butter was too cold. Always ensure both components are at room temperature before combining.

Can I color or flavor Ermine Frosting?

Absolutely. You can add gel food coloring or extracts like almond, lemon, or even cocoa powder to customize it to your dessert needs.

Is it stable for hot weather?

Not ideal. Since it’s butter-based, Ermine Frosting can soften or melt in warm temperatures. It’s best served in a cool environment or stored chilled until serving.

Can I use plant-based milk?

Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk can work, but the consistency and flavor may vary slightly. Stick with full-fat varieties for best results.

---

Want More Frosting & Dessert Ideas?

If you’re a fan of retro-inspired sweets like this Vintage Ermine Frosting, you’ll want to check out these other reader-loved creations:

• The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe for a smooth finish with bold vanilla.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies that melt in your mouth and pair perfectly with a layer of frosting.
• Cheesecake-Stuffed Caramel Apple Cookies for a sweet-tart twist with gooey centers.
• Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars when you want rich, chewy nostalgia in every bite.
• No-Bake Pecan Coconut Praline Cookies for an easy southern-style treat.

Explore even more of my sweet creations and daily recipe inspirations over on Pinterest @LifeWithNinaRecipes. It’s where all the fun new flavors and creative spins on classics live!

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And if you give this frosting a whirl, I’d love to hear what you paired it with! Red velvet cake? Chocolate cupcakes? Did you try tinting it with color or using almond extract instead of vanilla?

Drop a comment below to share your version, or any questions you might have. Sharing helps everyone bake a little better.

---

Print