Old-Fashioned Whoopie Pies ~Submitted by Darlene~ 1/2 cup baking cocoa 1/2 cup hot water 1/2 cup shortening 1-1/2 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup buttermilk FILLING: 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Dash salt 1 cup milk 3/4 cup shortening 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract In a small bowl, combine cocoa and water; mix well. Cool for 5 minutes. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening and sugar. Add cocoa mixture, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Combine dry ingredients. Add to creamed mixture alternately with but­termilk; mix well. Drop by rounded table-spoonfuls 2 in. apart onto greased baking sheets. Flatten slightly with a spoon. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch. Remove to wire racks to cool. In a saucepan, combine flour and salt. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; cook and stir over medium-high heat until thick, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and refrigerate until completely cool. In a mixing bowl, cream shortening, sugar and vanilla. Add chilled milk mixture; beat for 7 minutes or until fluffy. Spread filling on half of the cookies; top with remaining cookies. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 2 dozen.