Pretzel Bites

Directions

1. 1
   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, or in a large bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, salt, the first amount of melted butter, brown sugar and the very warm water. Once the ingredients are combined, knead for 5-6 minutes by machine, or 10-12 minutes by hand.
2. 2
   The dough should clear the sides and bottom of the bowl and be very soft and smooth, but not overly sticky. If it's too sticky add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If it's really dry and not tacky at all, add a little more water a tablespoon at a time.
3. 3
   Move the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with a piece of plastic wrap and let it rest for 30-60 minutes.
4. 4
   Preheat the oven to 500 F. Cut the dough into 6 equal sized pieces and roll each of them into a 15 inch long rope. Then cut each rope into 10 pieces, each about 1.5 inches long. (I don't actually measure any of this. Just eyeball it, it doesn't need to be perfect!). Let the pieces rest uncovered for 10 minutes.
5. 5
   Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, or spray them with non-stick cooking spray. In a shallow bowl, mix the warm water with the baking soda until combined. It won't stay in solution, but just give it a quick whisk to combine as well as possible after dipping a few pieces. Dip each of the pretzel pieces into the baking soda wash, coating completely, and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Sprinkle them with coarse or kosher salt.
6. 6
   Bake for 7-8 minutes or until they are golden brown. I recommend that you bake one sheet at a time. The others will be fine to rest uncovered for a little longer. When they come out of the oven, brush thoroughly with the melted butter. Serve warm.
7. 7
   Adapted from Mel's Kitchen Cafe.