Apricot Kolachy

Ingredients

 * 1 tbsp active dry yeast
 * 1/4 cup lukewarm water
 * 1/4 cup + 2 t sugar
 * 1/4 cup margarine
 * 2 eggs
 * 1/2 tsp lemon extract
 * 1/2 tsp salt
 * 1 cup water
 * 3 1/2 cup to 4 c flour
 * 24 dried apricots or prunes
 * 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Directions
Dissolve the yeast in the ¼ cup of warm water. Add the ¼ cup of sugar and margarine. When the margarine is soft, add the salt,eggs, lemon extract, ½ cup of water, and 3 cups of the flour. Beat until thoroughly blended. Place on a floured surface and knead in extra flour to make a soft, smooth dough. Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, let rise until doubled in bulk. (about 1 hour) meanwhile, cook the apricots in the remaining ½ cup of water for 15 to 20 minutes, or until softened. Puree. Add the cinnamon and the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar and mix well. Cool until needed. Punch the dough down and let rest for 5 minutes. Roll out on a floured,surface to approximately ½ inch thick and cut into 2-inch circles. Place a spoonful of the apricot (or prune) purr in the center. Place on an oiled baking sheet. Let rise for 15 minutes. Bake in a 400°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until browned