Directions
  1. In a small bowl, whisk the water with the yeast and 1 teaspoon of the sugar; let stand until foamy, about 10 minutes.  
  2. Lightly oil a large bowl and set aside. In another bowl, whisk the flour with the salt and remaining 2 tsp sugar. Stir in melted butter and the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured work surface and knead until smooth, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the dough to the oiled bowl to rest, cover with plastic wrap and let stand at room temperature until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a shallow dish, whisk the baking soda into 1 cup of hot water until dissolved.
  4. Cut the dough into 8 equal pieces. On a work surface, roll out each piece of dough into a 24-inch rope. Take either end of the rope and twist into a pretzel shape, pressing the ends to adhere. Lay the pretzel in the baking soda water, letting the excess drip off and place on a parchment linked baking sheet. Bake until golden, 14-15 minutes.
  5. Remove from the oven, brush with melted butter, and top with cheese and pepperoni.
  6. Return to the oven for another 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.