Pretzel Bites:

1️⃣ Prepare yeast mixture: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the lukewarm water and yeast. Whisk until the yeast dissolves.

2️⃣ Add wet ingredients: Add melted butter, brown sugar, and salt to the yeast mixture and whisk until smooth.

3️⃣ Make the dough: Attach the dough hook to the mixer and turn it to low speed. Gradually add in 3 cups of flour, ½ cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. PRO TIP: If the dough is sticky, add more flour, ¼ cup at a time, until it’s no longer sticky and springs back when poked.

4️⃣ Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead by hand for about 2 minutes. Shape into a ball, then place in a greased mixing bowl. Cover and let rest for 10 minutes.

5️⃣ Pre-boil pretzels: While the dough rests, bring a large pot of water and the baking soda to a boil. Preheat the oven to 425°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

6️⃣ Shape and cut: Divide the dough into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 1 inch thick, then cut each rope into 1½-inch bites.

7️⃣ Boil and prepare: Add the pretzel bites in batches to the boiling water, letting them cook for 20 seconds. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.

8️⃣ Brush and bake: In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and water. Brush each pretzel bite with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse salt. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cheddar Cheese Sauce:

1️⃣ Make a roux: In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add flour and whisk until no lumps remain.

2️⃣ Add milk: Increase the heat to medium and gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, stirring often, for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

3️⃣ Add cheese and seasoning: Lower the heat, then add the grated cheddar, salt, pepper, and mustard powder. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve:

Serve the warm pretzel bites with the cheddar cheese sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy these delicious bites fresh from the oven!