Description
This frosting is a classic, old-school delight that elevates any cake or dessert. It’s not overly sweet but boasts a silky, smooth texture that’s unforgettable. Forget store-bought tubs; this recipe focuses on quality ingredients and patient preparation to create a truly exceptional frosting experience. This frosting is so good, some bakeries would charge a premium to share the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preparation:
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This prevents lumps from forming during cooking.
Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens considerably. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the thickened mixture into a heatproof bowl. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature. This is crucial for the frosting’s texture. You can speed up the cooling process by placing the bowl in the refrigerator, but ensure it is fully cooled before proceeding.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract together using an electric mixer (or a wooden spoon for a truly old-fashioned approach). Beat on medium speed until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The goal is to incorporate air into the butter and sugar, creating a light and airy base for the frosting.
Step 5: Once the milk and flour mixture is completely cooled, add it to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed for a full 5 minutes. This extended beating time is essential for achieving the signature light, smooth, and cloud-soft texture of this frosting. Don’t rush this step! Scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This frosting is a game-changer. It’s not just sweet; it’s a flavor experience. The texture is incredibly smooth and silky, and the taste is balanced and refined. It’s a perfect complement to any cake, cupcake, or sweet treat. Plus, the “secret” nature of the recipe adds a touch of mystique!
Serving Suggestions:
- Classic Yellow Cake: This frosting is a natural pairing for a classic yellow cake.
- Chocolate Cake: The smooth, subtle flavor complements rich chocolate cake perfectly.
- Vanilla Cupcakes: Elevate simple vanilla cupcakes with this gourmet frosting.
- Sugar Cookies: Spread a thin layer on sugar cookies for an extra-special treat.
- Brownies: Add a layer to your brownies for a decadent touch.
Tips:
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is truly at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free frosting.
- Cooling Completely: Make sure the milk and flour mixture is completely cooled before adding it to the butter mixture.
- Patience is Key: Don’t rush the beating process, especially in the final step. The full 5 minutes are necessary to achieve the desired texture.
- Wooden Spoon Option: For a truly traditional approach, use a wooden spoon instead of an electric mixer. Be prepared for a good arm workout!
- Storage: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature and re-beat slightly before using.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooling time: 30-60 minutes
- Cook time: 5-7 minutes
- Total time: About 1-1.5 hours (including cooling)
Nutrition Information:
(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.)
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (serving size depends on usage)
- Protein: Less than 1 gram per serving
- Sodium: Varies depending on butter, approximately 50-75mg per serving.
Conclusion
The “$300 Frosting” is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and patient preparation. It’s a classic recipe that’s worth the effort, delivering a smooth, silky, and unforgettable frosting experience. Once you try it, you’ll understand why people were willing to pay a premium for this secret recipe!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: While whole milk is recommended for its richness, you can use 2% milk. The frosting might not be quite as decadent, but it will still be delicious.
Q2: Can I use salted butter?
A: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the amount of salt in the frosting. If you only have salted butter, omit a pinch of salt from the milk and flour mixture.
Q3: Why is it important to cool the milk and flour mixture completely?
A: If the milk and flour mixture is too warm, it will melt the butter and the frosting will be too runny.
Q4: Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the frosting a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature and re-beat it to restore its smooth texture.
Q5: What if my frosting is too thick?
A: If your frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time while beating until you reach the desired consistency.
