Step 1: Combine warm water and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Add 2 tablespoons melted butter, salt, and 4 cups of flour. Mix by hand or with a dough hook until the dough comes together.
Step 3: Add remaining flour gradually until the dough is no longer sticky. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
Step 4: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 450°F and prepare the baking soda bath by bringing 10 cups of water and 2/3 cup baking soda to a boil.
Step 6: Divide dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each into a 20-inch rope and twist into a pretzel shape.
Step 7: Dip each pretzel into the boiling water for 30 seconds, then place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: While pretzels are baking, mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1.5 tablespoons cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Step 10: Once out of the oven, brush pretzels generously with melted butter and press into the cinnamon-sugar mixture.