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 (~2½ oz. 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. (See picture in post for guide.)

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 parchment-lined baking sheet. (Tip: Spray the parchment paper with non-stick spray first. This will help keep the pretzels from sticking to the paper.)

Sprinkle tops of pretzels with Parmesan cheese and then lay sliced pepperoni on top. Let pretzels rest for 10 minutes uncovered.

Meanwhile, preheat oven to 475°F.

Bake at 475°F for 9-11 minutes, or until pretzels are golden brown in color. Remove pretzels from oven and brush with melted butter.

Serve with favorite marinara sauce for dipping.