• 2 1/2 (625 mL) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 mL) baking powder
• 1 tsp (5 mL) salt
• 3/4 cup (175 mL) softened shortening
• 1 cup (250 mL) granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) vanilla
• 3 squares (each 1 oz / 28g) unsweetened chocolate, melted (detailed in "Ingredient Methods")
• Sugar

  Filling

• 1/2 cup (125 mL) softened butter
• 1 1/2 cuop (375 mL) confectioner's (icing) sugar, sifted
• 2 egg yolks
• 2 tsp (10 mL) vanilla

1. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder and salt.

2. In another bowl, beat shortening and sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until incorporated. Stir in vanilla and chocolate. Gradually add flour mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover tightly and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours or overnight.

3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch (0.25-cm) thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass dipped in flour, about 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, cut out cookies and place about 2 inches (5 cm) apart on prepared cookie sheet. Sprinkle generously with sugar and bake in preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes until cookies are set. Immediately transfer to wire racks to cool.

4. To make Filling: In a bowl, beat butter and confectioner's sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla until well blended.

5. On a work surface, spread filling on one cookie then top with another to make a sandwich.

VARIATION