Preheat the oven to 450° after the dough has risen, and spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or line with parchment paper. Set aside.

In a large bowl or stand mixer, with the hook attachment, add yeast, sugar and warm water and mix until combined, about 3 minutes.

Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, followed by table salt and butter.

Continue mixing until the dough forms a smooth ball.

Knead dough 6-8 times.

Lightly spray a large mixing bowl with non-stick cooking spray and place the dough ball into the bowl.

Cover with a light kitchen towel and let rise until the dough doubles in size, approximately 60 minutes.

Remove towel and punch dough down and transfer to a lightly floured surface,

Cut the dough ball in half and then cut each half into 6 equal pieces.

Roll each piece of dough into a 14 inch long strip.

Fold dough in the shape as a pretzel and pinch the ends to seal.

In a large pot over medium high heat, bring water and baking soda to a boil.

Place one or two pretzels into the water for 30 seconds and flip over for another 20 seconds.

Remove pretzels with a slotted spoon and place on the prepared baking sheet.

Repeat with remaining dough.

Brush each pretzel with egg and sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

Place in 450° preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.