Orange Mini Whoopie Pies with Cream Cheese Filling

1. Mix the batter: In a bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, orange juice, and orange zest. Mix until smooth and thick.
2. Chill the batter: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This makes scooping much easier and helps keep the cookies nicely shaped.
3. Bake the cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Scoop small portions (about 1 tablespoon) onto trays, spacing 2 inches apart. This batter is super sticky. Sprinkle each cookie scoop with a little bit of white sugar for added crunch. Bake 8–10 minutes, just until set. Do not overbake. Cool completely.
4. Make the filling: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy. Add vanilla and salt. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until thick but spreadable.
5. Assemble: Spread or pipe filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie and gently press.