Whoopie pies

1. Set the oven at 350 degrees. Grease a baking sheet.

2. In a bowl, sift the cocoa and baking soda. Whisk in the hot water until smooth. Set aside to cool.

3. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

4. In an electric mixer, cream the shortening, butter, and brown sugar. Add the egg and vanilla. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Beat in the sour cream.

6. Blend half the flour mixture into the batter. Add half the cocoa mixture. Repeat with the remaining flour and cocoa.

7. Drop generous tablespoons of batter onto the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one. Smooth the tops with a greased knife.

8. Bake for 10 to 14 minutes or until the cakes spring back when pressed lightly. Cool on a wire rack.

THE FILLING:
1. In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the shortening, butter, sugar, vanilla, and salt. When the mixture is smooth, beat in the Fluff.

2. Spread about 2 tablespoons of filling on half of the cool cakes, leaving about 1/4-inch around the edges.

3. Top with remaining pies, pressing down until the filling hits the edge


~Boston Globe