Classic Whoopie Pies

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until smooth.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops spring back when lightly touched.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
9. In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, shortening, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth to make the filling.
10. Once the cookies are cool, spread a generous amount of filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie, flat side down.
11. Repeat with remaining cookies to assemble the whoopie pies.