1/2 c. shortening
1 c. granulated sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 c. all purpose flour
2/3 c. unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 c. hot water
2/3 c. buttermilk

In mixer bowl beat together the first 1/2 cup shortening and granulated sugar on high speed of electric mixer until fluffy. Add egg and egg yolk. Stir together the flour, cocoa, and salt; set aside. Dissolve baking soda in hot water; cool slightly. Add flour mixture alternately with soda mixture and buttermilk to creamed mixture. Blend until well mixed. Drop batter by rounded teaspoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until set. Cool cookies on wire racks while preparing filling.

WHOOPIE PIE FILLING:

2 c. sifted powdered sugar
1 egg white
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 c. butter, softened

In a medium mixing bowl combine powdered sugar, egg white, and vanilla. Beating with mixer at low speed, gradually add butter and remaining shortening. Beat at high speed until light and fluffy. Spread filling on one cookie, top with second cookie, repeat with remaining cookies. Store in refrigerator. Makes 2 dozen.