16 Delicious Ermine Frosting Recipes for Every Occasion

Kickstart your baking adventures with these 16 delectable ermine frosting recipes that promise to elevate any cake, cupcake, or cookie from good to unforgettable! Whether you’re dressing up a birthday cake or adding a special touch to holiday treats, our roundup has the perfect frosting for every occasion. Dive in and discover your next favorite way to sweeten the deal!

Classic Vanilla Ermine Frosting

Perfect for those who prefer a less sweet frosting, Classic Vanilla Ermine Frosting is smooth, stable, and pairs beautifully with any cake.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk to the saucepan, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture to the butter, beating on high speed until the frosting is smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Ermine frosting has a silky texture and a subtle vanilla flavor that complements rich cakes. Try it layered between chocolate cake for a classic combination or use it to frost a simple vanilla cupcake for a light finish.

Chocolate Ermine Frosting

Perfect for those who crave a less sweet frosting, Chocolate Ermine Frosting offers a silky, rich alternative to traditional buttercream.

Ingredients

• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Instructions

1. Whisk 5 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 tsp salt in a saucepan.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
6. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture to the butter, beating on high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
7. Sift in 1/2 cup cocoa powder and beat until fully incorporated and smooth.

Makes a velvety frosting with a deep chocolate flavor, ideal for spreading on cakes or piping onto cupcakes. For an extra touch, sprinkle with sea salt or top with fresh berries.

Strawberry Ermine Frosting

Unbelievably smooth and not too sweet, Strawberry Ermine Frosting is a game-changer for your cakes and cupcakes. Its unique texture comes from a cooked flour base, ensuring stability without the grit of powdered sugar.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup strawberry puree
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture in 3 additions, beating well after each to fully incorporate.
7. Mix in 1/2 cup strawberry puree and 1 tsp vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and uniform in color.
8. Continue beating on high speed for 3-5 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Whipped to perfection, this frosting boasts a silky texture and a vibrant strawberry flavor that pairs wonderfully with vanilla or chocolate cakes. For a decorative touch, pipe it onto cupcakes using a star tip or spread it generously over a layered cake.

Lemon Ermine Frosting

Just when you thought frosting couldn’t get any better, Lemon Ermine Frosting comes along. This light, not-too-sweet frosting is a game-changer for cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until creamy, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 3 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp lemon juice until fully incorporated and the frosting is fluffy.
8. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and re-beat before using.

Great for those who find traditional buttercream too sweet, this frosting offers a tangy, creamy alternative. Its smooth texture pairs perfectly with vanilla or almond cakes, or try it atop lemon poppy seed muffins for a double citrus hit.

Coconut Ermine Frosting

This coconut ermine frosting is a game-changer for bakers seeking a less sweet, velvety alternative to buttercream. Try it on your next cake for a subtly tropical twist.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup coconut cream

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture in three additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 cup coconut cream until fully incorporated and the frosting is smooth.

Keep the frosting at room temperature if using immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Key to its charm, this frosting boasts a silky texture and a delicate coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For an extra touch, toast some coconut flakes and sprinkle them on top.

Coffee Ermine Frosting

Whip up a smooth, not-too-sweet Coffee Ermine Frosting that pairs perfectly with your favorite cakes. This recipe balances rich coffee flavor with a light, fluffy texture, ideal for those who prefer less sugar.

Ingredients

– 1 cup whole milk
– 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 tbsp instant coffee granules

Instructions

1. Heat 1 cup whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming, about 3 minutes. Do not boil.
2. Whisk in 5 tbsp all-purpose flour until smooth. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to thicken.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. Tip: Spread mixture on a plate to cool faster.
4. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar on high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
5. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture, beating continuously to incorporate fully.
6. Add 2 tsp vanilla extract and 2 tbsp instant coffee granules. Beat for another 2 minutes until smooth and uniform. Tip: Dissolve coffee granules in 1 tsp hot water for a stronger flavor.
7. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Tip: Bring to room temperature and re-beat before using for best texture.
How this frosting stands out with its velvety texture and deep coffee aroma, making it a standout choice for chocolate or vanilla cakes. Try piping it onto cupcakes for an elegant touch.

Maple Ermine Frosting

Dive into the creamy, subtly sweet world of Maple Ermine Frosting, a less common but utterly delightful alternative to buttercream. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter, less sugary topping for their cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients

– 1 cup whole milk
– 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 1 cup whole milk and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
4. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
5. Gradually add 1 cup pure maple syrup to the butter, beating continuously until fully incorporated.
6. Add the cooled milk mixture and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the butter mixture.
7. Beat on high speed for 5 minutes, or until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
8. Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.

How this frosting stands out is in its silky texture and the rich, autumnal flavor of maple. Try it on spiced cakes or as a filling for whoopie pies for a seasonal twist.

Peanut Butter Ermine Frosting

Frosting doesn’t get much smoother or more versatile than this Peanut Butter Ermine Frosting. It’s a game-changer for cakes and cupcakes, offering a rich flavor without being overly sweet.

Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Whisk 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on high speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
7. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract until just combined.
8. Use immediately or refrigerate until ready to use, bringing to room temperature before spreading.
Dense yet silky, this frosting pairs perfectly with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For a twist, swirl in a spoonful of jam before spreading.

Cream Cheese Ermine Frosting

Got a cake that needs a smooth, not-too-sweet frosting? Cream cheese ermine frosting is your answer.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter and 8 oz cream cheese together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on high speed until fully incorporated and the frosting is smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
7. Use immediately to frost cakes or cupcakes, or refrigerate until ready to use. If refrigerated, let it come to room temperature and beat again before using.

Not overly sweet, this frosting has a velvety texture that spreads like a dream. Try it on carrot cake or red velvet for a classic combo.

Mocha Ermine Frosting

Silky smooth and rich, this Mocha Ermine Frosting combines the deep flavors of coffee and chocolate for a luxurious finish to any dessert. Perfect for those who prefer less sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 3 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1 tbsp instant coffee granules, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully incorporated and smooth.
8. Continue beating for another 2 minutes to ensure a light and airy texture.

Rich and velvety, this frosting pairs wonderfully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For an extra touch, sprinkle with cocoa powder or coffee granules before serving.

Pumpkin Spice Ermine Frosting

Just when you thought pumpkin spice couldn’t get any better, this ermine frosting changes the game. Smooth, not too sweet, and perfectly spiced, it’s a must-try for any fall dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup whole milk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 4 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice until fully incorporated and frosting is fluffy.

Airy and light, this frosting pairs wonderfully with spiced cakes or as a dip for ginger cookies. The pumpkin pie spice adds a warm, autumnal flavor without overpowering the delicate ermine base.

Almond Ermine Frosting

Oat milk and almond flour bring a nutty depth to this Almond Ermine Frosting, a lighter alternative to buttercream. Perfect for those seeking a less sweet option without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup oat milk
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Whisk 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually add 1 cup oat milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a separate bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Add 1/2 cup almond flour to the butter, beating until fully incorporated.
7. Gradually add the cooled flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on high speed until smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
8. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract until just combined.

Mildly sweet with a velvety texture, this frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For a decorative touch, pipe it using a star tip for elegant swirls.

Orange Ermine Frosting

Delightfully smooth and subtly sweet, Orange Ermine Frosting is a vintage gem that’s making a comeback. Perfect for those who prefer less sugary frostings with a creamy texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp orange zest

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Cool to room temperature.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 4 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 2 tbsp orange zest until fully incorporated and the frosting is fluffy.
8. Continue beating for another 2 minutes to ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Not overly sweet, this frosting boasts a velvety texture with a bright citrus note. Try it atop spice cake or between layers of vanilla bean cupcakes for a refreshing twist.

Raspberry Ermine Frosting

Humble yet elegant, Raspberry Ermine Frosting transforms simple ingredients into a velvety, not-too-sweet topping perfect for cakes and cupcakes. Its slight tang and smooth texture make it a standout choice for those tired of traditional buttercreams.

Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1/2 cup raspberry puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Whisk 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour in a medium saucepan.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 3 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1/2 cup raspberry puree and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the frosting is smooth.
8. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and rebeat before using.
Silky and rich, this frosting pairs beautifully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For a decorative touch, pipe it onto cupcakes and top with fresh raspberries.

Mint Chocolate Ermine Frosting

Perfect for elevating any dessert, Mint Chocolate Ermine Frosting combines cool mint with rich chocolate for a smooth, spreadable delight.

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar and 5 tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually add 1 cup whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
5. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
6. Add the cooled flour mixture to the butter in 3 additions, beating well after each.
7. Mix in 1 tsp peppermint extract and 1/2 cup cocoa powder until fully incorporated and smooth.
8. Continue beating for another 2 minutes to ensure a light and airy texture.

Creamy and luxurious, this frosting pairs wonderfully with chocolate or vanilla cakes. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before serving.

Caramel Ermine Frosting

Just when you thought frosting couldn’t get any better, Caramel Ermine Frosting comes along. This silky, not-too-sweet topping is a game-changer for cakes and cupcakes alike.

Ingredients

– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.
2. Increase heat to high. Cook without stirring until mixture turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Swirl the pan gently for even coloring.
3. Carefully add 1/2 cup whole milk to the caramel. Stir constantly until smooth. Mixture will bubble vigorously.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk 1/4 cup all-purpose flour into remaining 1/2 cup whole milk until no lumps remain.
5. Pour flour-milk mixture into the caramel. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/4 tsp salt. Let cool to room temperature.
7. Beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter in a stand mixer on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
8. Gradually add the cooled caramel mixture to the butter, beating until fully incorporated and frosting is smooth. Tip: Scrape down the bowl often for even mixing.
9. Continue beating until frosting is light and holds stiff peaks, about 5 minutes. Tip: If frosting is too soft, chill for 10 minutes before rebeating.

Yielding a luxuriously smooth texture, this frosting pairs perfectly with spiced cakes or as a dip for fruit. Its rich caramel flavor deepens over time, making it ideal for make-ahead desserts.

Conclusion

Unleash your baking creativity with these 16 Ermine Frosting recipes, perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, there’s something here to sweeten your day. We’d love to hear which recipe stole your heart—drop us a comment below. Don’t forget to share the love by pinning your favorites on Pinterest. Happy baking!

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