Yields: Enough to frost a 2-layer 8-inch cake
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10β15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
π₯£ Ingredients
For the Flour Base
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (soy or oat recommended for richness)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ΒΌ cup granulated sugar
For the Buttercream
- 1 cup vegan butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch salt
π©βπ³ Instructions
1. Make the flour base
- In a small saucepan, whisk together non-dairy milk, flour, and sugar until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency (~5β7 minutes).
- Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin, and chill in the fridge for 1 hour or until completely cooled.
2. Prepare the butter
- In a large bowl, beat vegan butter with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy (~2β3 minutes).
3. Combine butter and flour base
- Add the chilled flour base to the whipped butter in small portions, mixing well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Beat on high for 2β3 minutes until the frosting is light, silky, and fluffy.
4. Frost cakes or cupcakes
- Use immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3β4 days (bring to room temperature and re-whip before using).
π‘ Tips
- Use soy or oat milk for best consistency; almond milk can sometimes be too thin.
- Chill the flour base fully; adding warm mixture will make the frosting runny.
- Beat thoroughly β patience is key for that classic Ermine texture.
β Optional Variations
- Chocolate Ermine Frosting: Add 2β3 tbsp cocoa powder to the flour base before chilling.
- Maple or Caramel: Swap part of the sugar for maple syrup or caramel syrup.
- Citrus: Add 1β2 tsp lemon or orange zest for a bright flavor.

