Preparation Steps

• Whisk together the warm milk and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the yeast on top and wait 5 minutes for the yeast to foam up and activate.
• Add the flour, melted butter and salt. Use a spoon to mix until combined, then knead the dough for about 4 minutes until smooth, adding more flour if too sticky.
• Transfer the dough to a lightly-oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes until doubled in size.
• Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and combine water and baking soda in a large saucepan, bringing to a boil.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly-oiled surface, divide into 12 pieces, and roll each piece into ¾-inch wide ropes. Cut each rope into 1-inch pretzel bites.
• Carefully transfer the bites into the boiling water for about 30 seconds per batch, then place on the parchment-lined pan.
• Brush the top of each pretzel bite with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.
• Bake until golden brown, about 12 to 14 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
• If desired, brush with extra melted butter immediately after baking.
• Serve warm and enjoy these pretzel bites best the day they are baked.