101 in 1001: Whoopie for a new recipe

This month I have been trying to learn to cook a little. When I say I have been learning to cook it really just means I have been obsessed with my new KitchenAid mixer and have been making all sorts of baked goods. Last week it was National Cream Filling Day and I wanted to bring something to my AXO Sisters for recruitment, so I tried my hand at making whoopie pies. I have tried them once before and failed miserably, so I tried a new recipe this time and it worked perfectly! Here is a picture of the outcome:

I must admit I was going to give up before I ever started because there were 13 ingredients involved in the recipe. That many ingredients= chaos in my mind and on my counter tops. After looking up many recipes I finally found one that had all of the right ingredients and seemed the easiest. Good luck if you attempt to try your hand at Whoopie Pies. I would love to see how yours come out!

WHOOPIE PIE:

2 c. sugar
3/4 c. shortening
2 eggs, slightly beaten
2 c. milk
2 tsp. vanilla
10 tbsp. cocoa
4 c. flour
2 1/2 tsp. soda
Pinch of salt

Cream shortening and sugar. Combine beaten eggs, milk and vanilla and beat into creamed mixture. Slowly stir sifted dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, and beat on medium speed about 2 minutes. Drop with tablespoon onto greased and floured cookie sheet (enough dough to make a baked cookie about 2 to 2 1/2 inches). Bake at 350 degrees until cookie just springs back when pressed in center with finger. Remove to rack and cool completely before filling.

WHOOPIE PIE FILLING:

Mix together:

2 tbsp. flour
1/2 c. milk

Cook until thick but do not allow to boil. Stir constantly. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely. Set aside.Beat together:

1/2 c. Crisco
1/2 c. sugar

Beat until creamy. Add vanilla and salt (dash).Mix sugar mixture with the milk and flour mixture. Stir until smooth or beat on medium speed until fluffy.