In a large bowl combine the warm water, sugar, yeast, and butter. Mix quickly and allow to sit for 5 minutes.

Add the salt and flour and mix until a dough forms. Turn onto a floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, adding flour if the dough because sticky, until the dough is smooth.

Spray a large bowl with cooking spray and add the dough. Turn to coat the dough with the cooking spray. Cover with a clean towel and set in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled.

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Add in the baking soda. This will cause the water to boil harder so be careful.

Remove the dough from the bowl and place on a table. Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope. Cut into 1 inch pieces. Repeat with remaining dough.

Place 8-10 pretzel bites in the boiling water at a time and boil for 30 seconds. Remove with a large slotted spoon. Place the pretzel bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining pretzel bites.

Brush the pretzel bites with the beaten egg and then sprinkle with kosher salt.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bites are golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.