Activate the Yeast: Pour warm water into a mixing bowl and sprinkle the active dry yeast. Stir in sugar and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix all-purpose flour and salt thoroughly.

Form the Dough: Add yeast mixture and melted butter to flour mix. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then transfer to a floured surface.

Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if too sticky.

Let the Dough Rise: Oil a bowl, place dough inside, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.

Shape the Pretzels: Punch down the dough and divide into 8 portions. Roll each piece into an 18-inch long rope and twist into pretzel shape.

Preheat and Prepare the Boiling Solution: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of water to boil. Dissolve baking soda in boiling water.

Boil the Pretzels: Gently place each pretzel into boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove and let dry on a baking sheet.

Apply Egg Wash and Topping: Brush pretzels with beaten egg. Mix sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over pretzels.

Bake the Pretzels: Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve: Let pretzels cool on a wire rack before serving warm.