What in the world happened?

Here's my recipe:
Wilton basic BC
1 c shortening (used high ratio shortening)
1 t extract
1 lb powdered sugar
1 T meringue pdr
2 T half & half

Added 3/4 c cocoa powder & 2 T half & half

Here's my problem: Before I added the liquid, the sugar & cocoa weren't even incorporated into the shortening AT ALL! Once I added the liquid (1/4 c at one time) it finally came together, but it's really really really stiff.

Any ideas on what my problem might be?

High ratio shortening absorbs liquid more so than Crisco, that is one of its advantages. Because cocoa means you normally need more liquid anyway, with the high ratio shortening factor you need to increase you liquid. No problemo kiddo, just add more cream. I find even when using Crisco, the introduction of cocoa to the recipe means I use way more liquid.
Hugs Squirrelly

Cream together the shortening, all the liquids and the cocoa powder first, then add sugar in two or three portions. Cocoa powder often has to have some type of oil or alcohol to mix with first (surface tension thing).

then like SC says..just add more liquid if stiff

With 2 Tablespoons of liquid in the orginal recipe you are looking at a stiff consistancy. When making chocolate with cocoa powder you do have to have extra liquid because you are adding more of the dry ingredients to the recipe.

So even with adding the extra 2 Tablespoons of liquid you still have a stiff consistancy icing.

Thanks for the help everybody. I've made this icing before with exactly the same ingredients, high ratio shortening and all, with no problems. The wierd thing was that when I added in the dry ingredients, it didn't even look like there was any shortening at all in the bowl. And when I say it was stiff, I mean it was practically a solid block, not just stiff consistency icing. My KA 600 Pro was making protesting noises. I added nearly a cup of half and half before I even got to stiff consistency. Even then I had little chunks of nearly solid icing throughout. I'm just glad it was for my family.