In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 5 minutes on a floured surface until smooth.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat your oven to 450°F.

Divide the dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each piece into a long rope (about 24 inches). Shape it into a “U” and twist the ends together before folding them down to form the pretzel shape.

In a saucepan, bring 10 cups of water to a boil and stir in ½ cup of baking soda. Carefully dip each pretzel into this solution for about 30 seconds, then remove and let drain on a wire rack.

Place the pretzels on a greased baking sheet. Brush each with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt if using. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.

While still warm, mix sugar and cinnamon in a bowl and coat each pretzel generously with it.

Serve warm, and enjoy the delightful bursts of flavor as you indulge in your homemade pretzels!