Soft Pretzel Garlic Knots

Steps

1. 1For the Dough: In a large glass measuring cup, combine water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 10 minutes, or until mixture begins to foam.
2. 2Pour the yeast mixture into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment.
3. 3Add the salt, flour, and butter and knead on medium-speed for 12 minutes.
4. 4Cover dough with a warm damp cloth and place in a warm area of your house to rise for an hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.
5. 5Shape the Knots: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 2 equal pieces.
6. 6Place each round of dough onto a piece plastic wrap and let them rest for 10 minutes.
7. 7Dust the top of each round of dough with a light sprinkling of flour and, using a sharp knife, slice each into quarters. Then slice each quarter in half. You should have 16 pieces of dough.
8. 8Roll out each quarter into an 8" rope, then tie it into a knot. Place the knots on the prepared baking sheets, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and set aside for 20 minutes. The knots will rise more during this time.
9. 9Assembly and Cooking: Preheat oven to 425 degrees (F). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
10. 10Add water and baking soda to a large pot and bring to a boil.
11. 11Place pretzel knots, one at a time, into the boiling cooking liquid. Cook for 30 seconds each.
12. 12Remove pretzel knots with a slotted spoon, allowing any excess water to drip back into the pot before transferring back onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all pretzel knots.
13. 13Once all pretzels have been boiled, brush the top of each with egg wash.
14. 14Place the pan in the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until deeply golden brown.
15. 15Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before topping with garlic butter. Serve warm.
16. 16For the Garlic Coating: Melt the butter in a small pan over medium-low heat. Add in the garlic and simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant (be sure not to over cook it here).
17. 17Add in the salt, garlic powder, and parsley, and stir to combine. Taste to season (add more salt, if needed), then remove from heat.
18. 18Brush the freshly baked knots with the garlic coating. Sprinkle with cheese and serve warm!