Bloom the yeast

• Warm the milk in the microwave until just warm, not hot.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast and brown sugar.
• Whisk gently and let bloom until frothy.

Make the dough

• Add the melted cooled butter, salt and flour to the yeast mixture.
• Mix with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together.

Knead the dough

• Lightly flour the work surface or bowl.
• Knead the dough until smooth and no longer sticky.

Let the dough rise

• Lightly oil the dough, cover and let it rise until doubled in size.

Shape the pretzels

• Punch down the dough and divide into 6 to 8 portions.
• Roll each portion into a long thin rope.
• Twist and shape each rope into a pretzel.

Prepare the baking soda bath

• In a bowl, mix the baking soda with the warm water.
• Dip each pretzel into the bath for a few seconds, then drain.
• Place the pretzels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Brush and season

• Brush each pretzel with the beaten egg.
• Sprinkle with coarse salt (or cinnamon sugar instead of salt).

Bake the pretzels

• Bake at 450 °F until golden brown.
• Let cool slightly before serving, ideally with cheese dip or mustard.