Combine lukewarm water and yeast in a bowl and stir
Add sugar, salt and stir to dissolve. Add flour to mixture and prepare to knead
Pretzel Dough Mix (if not making homemade dough)
Add the ingredients as listed on the packaging and prepare to knead.
Forming the Dough
Knead until dough is smooth and elastic. By Hand: knead on a lightly floured surface (or use a silicone baking matt) for 10-12 minutes Standing Mixer: use a medium speed for 7-10 minutes.
Cover and let rise for 30 minutes - 1 hour (until dough has doubled in size)
Baking Soda Bath
While dough is rising - start the baking soda bath. Combine 2 cups warm water and 2 tablespoons baking soda
Once the pretzels are ready to form - bring the water to a boil.
Form Pretzels
Once dough has risen - cut into 8-10 pieces. Roll into a long rope that's about ½ inch thick. (Make sure they are long and skinny as the dough will rise)
Form the pretzels and dip them in the baking soda bath and place onto the baking sheet.
Allow pretzels to rise a second time (30 minutes - 1 hour)
Preheat oven to 450 degrees
Bake
Once rise - brush with melted butter (for an alternative version - lightly brush with olive oil) and sprinkle with coarse salt
Bake for 10 minutes (until they are a golden brown)