Chai shortbread cookies

1. Heat oven to 325°F. Combine all cookie ingredients except flour in large bowl; beat at medium speed until creamy. Reduce speed to low; add flour. Beat until well mixed.

2. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten to 1 1/2-inch diameter with bottom of glass dipped in sugar.

3. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes or until set and cookies are lightly browned around edges. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet; remove to wire cooling rack. Cool completely.

4. Meanwhile, combine half & half and instant coffee granules in medium bowl; stir until coffee is dissolved. Add all remaining filling ingredients; beat at low speed until moistened. Increase speed to high; beat until smooth and creamy. Spread 1 teaspoon filling onto bottom-side of 1 cookie; top with second cookie, bottom-side down. Repeat with remaining cookies.

5. Combine all topping ingredients in small bowl; sprinkle over tops of sandwich cookies.