WHOOPIE PIE RECIPE

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup baking cocoa
• 1/2 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• FILLING:
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 dash Dash salt
• 1 cup milk
• 3/4 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  
  DIRECTIONS
  
  In a small bowl, combine cocoa and water; mix well. Cool for 5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add cocoa mixture, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Combine dry ingredients. Add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk; mix well.
  
  Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with a spoon. Bake at 350 degrees F for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove to wire racks to cool.
  
  In a saucepan, combine flour and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; cook and stir over medium-high heat until thick, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and refrigerate until completely cool. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening, sugar and vanilla. Add chilled milk mixture; beat for 7 minutes or until fluffy. Spread filling on half of the cookies; top with remaining cookies. Store in the refrigerator.