Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Red Hot Frosting

For the cookies:
Squeeze all the excess juice from the shredded apples and set aside. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, apple cider, eggs, oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat for 1 minute on low and then 1 minute on medium. Stir the shredded apples in by hand.

Scoop out by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake at 350ºF for 10 minutes. Cool 2 minutes on the pan and then remove to a wire rack. Makes 46 cookies.

Fill with frosting. Store in a loosely sealed container.

For the frosting:
Beat the butter, shortening, and salt until creamy. Beat in 1 cup of powdered sugar and set aside. In a small saucepan on low-medium heat, combine the Red Hots and water. Stir until melted. Pour the hot Red Hots in the butter mixture and beat immediately. Slowly add the rest of the powdered sugar and heavy cream until completely mixed in.

Note: Do not wait to mix in the liquid Red Hots. It will harden very quickly.