Dissolve yeast and sugar in the hot water; set aside. Sift flour in a large bowl, cut in margarine until mixture resembles course meal. Blend in egg yolks and softened yeast; mix until a smooth ball is formed.
Divide dough in half, roll out each half on a lightly floured board. Spread with half preserve, roll up like a jelly roll. (Or, beat two egg whites until very stiff and gradually add 1/2 cup sugar and one tsp vanilla and 1/4 cup chopped nuts.) Do the same with the other half of the dough.
Place on greased baking sheet Make a half inch cut lengthwise in the center of each ball. Bake immediately. No raising at 375° F for about 25 minutes or until golden brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar or make sugar glaze.
Servings: 4