Using a countertop mixer, combine all of the dough ingredients (flour, salt, brown sugar, yeast, and warm water). Mix on medium speed for 6 minutes.

Transfer dough to an oiled bowl. Cover and place in a warm (85°F) location for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the soaker by combining the boiling water with the baking soda. Mix until baking soda is fully dissolved, and set aside to cool.

Once dough has risen, divide it into 8 pieces of equal weight (~2.5 ounces each). Allow dough to rest uncovered for 5 minutes, then roll each piece of dough into a long, thin rope about 24” long. Twist each rope into a pretzel shape.

Preheat oven to 475°F.

Place each pretzel in the Soaker mixture for 2 minutes (spoon water over the top of the pretzel if it is not fully covered by the water). Transfer the pretzels to a baking sheet; let pretzels rest for 10 minutes uncovered. (Tip: Spray the baking sheet generously with non-stick spray first. This will help keep the pretzels from sticking.)

Bake at 475°F for 8-9 minutes, or until pretzels are golden brown in color.

While pretzels are baking, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and stir until well combined.

Remove pretzels from oven and brush with melted butter. Dust tops of pretzels with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

{Optional} Whisk all ingredients for the Icing together until smooth. Drizzle icing over top of pretzels before serving.