Ingredients

• 1 package (1/4 oz) active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
• 2 Tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon packed brown sugar, divided
• 1/4 cup warm water (110-115 degrees F) 1 cup warm milk (110-115 degrees F)
• 2 1/2 to 3 cups flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped ham (about 3 ounces)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese of choice
• 6 cups water
• 4 teaspoons baking soda
• 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1-2 Tablespoons coarse salt

Prepararion

1. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar and warm milk until dissolved.
2. In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, the milk mixture and the yeast.
3. Stir until a soft dough forms. Add the remaining flour as needed.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times, forming a smooth ball.
5. Brush the inside of a large clean bowl with olive oil. Transfer the dough to the bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
6. Allow to rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 2 hours, until dough has doubled in size and bubbles appear on the surface.
7. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
8. Divide into 4 equal pieces.
9. Lightly dust hands and rolling pin with flour. Roll one of the four sections into a 12×4-inch rectangle.
10. With the long side facing you, gently press 1/4 of the ham and cheese into the bottom third of the dough, and roll as tightly as possible, starting with the end that has the filling.
11. Cut into 12 1-inch pieces and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
12. Repeat with remaining 3 portions of dough.
13. Let rest, uncovered, at room temperature for 30 minutes.
14. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F.
15. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
16. Add the baking soda and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
17. Boil pretzels in batches, cooking about 20 seconds each, turning once. They should be slightly puffed.
18. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them back to the baking sheets.
19. Bake until puffed and golden-brown, about 15 minutes.
20. Brush warm pretzel bites with melted butter and sprinkle with salt.
21. Serve warm.