Cherry Whoopie Pies

Preheat oven to 350 F. Lightly grease baking sheets (I just used parchment paper for quick clean up). Prepare the filling by mixing the can of frosting with the food coloring and flavoring extract of your choice (I chose cherry). Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream together shortening, sugar, and egg. In another bowl, mix cocoa, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a small bowl, stir vanilla extract into the milk. Add dry ingredients to the shortening mix, alternating with the milk mixture. Beat until smooth.

Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls (to make 18 rounds) onto prepared sheets. With the back of a spoon, spread batter into 4″ circles, leave about 2″ between each cake. Bake for 15 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove from the oven to cool on wire racks completely.

When cookies are cooled, spread with your frosting and then top with another cookie. Repeat with all cookies to make 9 whoopie pies. Wrap individually with plastic wrap or put them on a platter in a single layer (do not stack them, they will stick). I think I am going to try a strawberry flavored one next!

Enjoy!