MAPLE LEAF SANDWICH COOKIES

Steps:

• Beat shortening, 1 cup butter and sugar in a large bowl at medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes or until smooth and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
• Whisk all remaining cookie ingredients in large bowl. Beat into butter mixture at low speed just until blended. Shape into flat round; refrigerate 30 minute.
• Heat oven to 375°F Divide dough into 4 pieces. On lightly floured surface roll out each piece into 1/8" thick round. With 3" leaf shaped cookie cutter, cut out leaf shapes. Repeat with remaining dough. Reroll scraps (refrigerate dough if it gets soft). Place on baking sheet; bake 7 to 9 min or until light golden brown around edges. Cool on wire rock.
• Meanwhile, beat 1 cup butter, maple syrup and maple extract in medium bowl at medium speed until smooth. At low speed, beat in 3 cups of the powdered sugar adding additional sugar if necessary to achieve spreadable consistency. Spread half of cookies with about 1 tbsp frosting; top with remaining cookies.