In a large mixing bowl, add warm water, sugar and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes.
Pour 2 cups of flour to the bowl of yeast and mix until combined. Add salt and the rest of the flour, mix until combined. Then knead for about 3 minutes.
Cover bowl with a tea towel and let sit for 1 hour.
Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and grease with cooking spray.
Cut the dough in half using a pizza cutter. Roll out each ball into a thin square and slice into 1/2" to 1" pieces.
Fill a pot with 6 cups water and bring to a boil. Add baking soda then lower the heat to medium/low.
Add the pretzel bites a little at a time and let poach for about 30 seconds. When they have risen, use a slotted spoon to remove and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Continue with the rest of the pretzel bites.
Bake at 400 degrees for about 10-12 minutes.
Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with coarse salt or toss in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.