Hi-Ho's Chocolate Chip Sandwiches - Tyler Florence Family Meals

Cookies:
2 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
2 large eggs
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Pinch of ground cinnamon
2 cups chocolate chips

Filling:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
2 cups confectioner's sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, beat the brown sugar and butter together at medium speed until fluffy. Add the eggs and beat until combined. In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, then add to the butter mixture and combine. Stir in the chips by hand.

Drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets by rounded 2-inch balls, leaving 2 inches between them. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the filling, combine the butter and shortening in a mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Gradually add the confectioner's sugar until combined, then beat in the vanilla. Turn the mixer to high and beat until fluffy.

When the cookies are completely cool, spread the smooth sides of half the cookies with a heaping dollop of filling. Top each with a second cookie to make a cookie sandwich.

Makes 1 dozen.